This highly acclaimed industry-led international centre of manufacturing expertise positions Scotland as a global leader in advanced manufacturing. NMIS brings together industry, academia and the public sector to transform skills, productivity and innovation.
National Manufacturing Institute Scotland
- Client: University of Strathclyde
- Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Services
- Industrialised construction
- Interior design
- Landscape architecture
- Social value
- Sustainability
Awards
- Construction News Awards
- RICS Awards
- Education Estates Awards
- Learning Places Scotland
- BCO Scottish Awards
- Structural Timber Awards
Press
- Architects Journal
- The Guardian
Social Value
Working on the National Manufacturing Institute of Scotland (NMIS) has been about more than just a building – it’s been a chance to make a real difference in the community. We’ve run site tours, workshops, apprenticeships, and design competitions that gave students hands-on experience and a taste of careers in construction.
Seeing young people develop skills, collaborate, and take pride in their ideas has been incredibly rewarding. From supporting local colleges to helping schools shape their own spaces, these initiatives leave a lasting impact, creating opportunities and inspiration that extend far beyond the project itself.
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Sustainability
We designed NMIS to operate without fossil fuels for its energy generation. Instead, it prioritises passive measures, low u-values and energy efficiency, making use of 100% renewable energy generated onsite. Offsite-manufactured components were used for minimised waste, durability, disassembly and adaptability for the future.
Material efficiency was a key design requirement for the University, and we reviewed options to ensure the highest efficiency over the lifecycle of the building, utilising recycled and long-life materials.
The BREEAM Outstanding, carbon-neutral building supports healthy working, encourages collaboration, and demonstrates what a sustainable, quality environment can achieve.
Project data
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BREEAM Outstanding certified
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EPC A+ (-5.86kgCO2/m2/a for regulated energy)
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RIBA 2030 Net Zero Operational Energy Metric <55kWh/m2/a (for office/ non-domestic buildings for regulated and non-regulated energy based on TM54 and client installed equipment including PV offset)
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LETI Net Zero Operational Energy Metric <55kWh/m2/a (for commercial offices)
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CLT and glulam timber reduced embodied carbon by around 700t compared to steel equivalent, sequestering a further 566 tonnes of CO2e
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VS1 mullion-only glazing system reduced aluminum in glazed facades by 65%
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An innovative foundation solution generated significant carbon saving of up to 30% in foundation design
This flagship facility – which has sustainability at its heart – is a unique part of Scotland’s manufacturing innovation ecosystem. It will play a leading role in developing advanced manufacturing, industry 4.0 capability and cross-sectoral research and innovation activity in Scotland, the UK and beyond.
Professor Sir Jim McDonald Principal & Vice Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde & Chair of NMIS Board
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In focus
Landscape
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Hexagonal grass landforms provide a distinct contrast with the colour and form of this landmark building.
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Carefully chosen, diverse planting enhances ecology and mitigates bird strikes at the adjacent airport.
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NMIS exemplifies HLM’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. By prioritising the use of recycled, long-life materials, and employing cutting-edge, sustainable design and construction methods, NMIS is a landmark learning environment that operates on 100% renewable energy. A beacon of efficiency, the project showcases our dedication to a sustainable future.
Ross Barrett Design Director
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In focusInterior Design
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Our NMIS interior design blends flexibility and connectivity through dynamic ‘villages’.
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Bold purple accents are inspired by highland heather, while locally sourced furniture and fabrics celebrate UK craftsmanship.
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Our award-winning design approach
NMIS is a pioneering partnership between the University of Strathclyde, the Advanced Forming Research Centre, High Value Manufacturing Catapult, Skills Development Scotland and Scottish Enterprise.
Our architecture, landscape and interior design teams worked together to develop a thoughtful design approach to create an open and collaborative environment where knowledge and creativity can be shared.
Located at the heart of the new Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS), NMIS acts as a catalyst for future development attracting world-leading companies and institutions involved at the cutting-edge of advanced manufacturing.
