Queens Award

Case Study

University of Birmingham Dubai


Opened in April 2022, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the new campus at University of Birmingham Dubai  encourages collaboration across academic disciplines and offers flexible learning spaces that incorporate digital technology.

Designed by Hopkins Architects and built by Khansaheb the building has already won a Special Prize in the prestigious Prix Versailles 2022 global architecture and design award for its innovation, creativity, reflection of local heritage, ecological efficiency and focus on sustainable development.

S+B UK manufactured and installed the modular lab furniture and fume cupboards for the University of Birmingham Dubai laboratories, adopting an early engagement and collaborative approach to design.

We worked closely with key stakeholders, incorporating the experiences and knowledge gained from the UK campus and engaged with the supply chain to ensure that the lab furniture met the high standards of the University.

The laboratory facilities are designed to be flexible, with 90% modular workstations  and 10% fixed furniture, enabling future adaptation and capacity for growth and change of discipline. This approach to design has allowed the University to maintain a laboratory space that can be adapted and customized in the future, ensuring that it remains a world-class facility for years to come.