The University of Glasgow's Beatson Institute for Cancer Research has won the Architecture Grand Prix prize at the Scottish Design Awards. The building, designed by Reiach and Hall Architects, was named Best in Show at the ceremony. The judges opinion was that the winner was "not only a fantastic building but was for a worthwhile cause and purpose".
Built within a walled garden on the University's Garscube Campus, Bearsden, the Beatson Institute accommodates seminar rooms, a lecture theatre, social areas and laboratories with space fro 250 staff. As one of Cancer Research UK's core funded institutes Beatson carried out a programme of world-class science directed at understanding key aspects of cancer cell behaviour. This understanding is translated into new therapies and diagnostic tools to help patients.
Mary Beaton, Estates and Buildings, successfully project managed the development on behalf of the University of Glasgow.
The Beatson Institute, which opened in May 2008 cost £25m to construct and has already won a number of other design awards including:
- RIBA Award 2009
- Civic Trust Award 2009
- Glasgow Institute of Architects Supreme Award 2008
- Glasgow Institute of Architects Best Healthcare Building 2008
- Roses Design Award Best Public Building 2008 (Silver)