We reorganised and extended Cardiff’s iconic science centre, doubling the footprint and transforming the visitor experience. Techniquest now welcomes more diverse audiences, and will enjoy a sustainable, long-term future in Cardiff Bay.
Techniquest Science Centre
- Client: Techniquest
- Location: Cardiff Bay, Cardiff
- Value: £6 million
Services
- Interior design
- Social value
Reimagining a landmark
Techniquest Cardiff is one of the UK’s longest established science centres, and a much-loved fixture in Cardiff Bay since it opened in the mid-1990s.
Our architecture, landscape and interiors teams – led by our local Cardiff studio – collaborated to double the size of the building through a new extension, reorganising the exhibition space, and repositioning the main entrance safely away from a busy road.
The extension creates a visually striking new landmark in Cardiff Bay, and we feel privileged to play a part in the reimagining and future-proofing of Techniquest.
HLM have shown exceptional innovation and capability in their design thinking throughout the project.
Lesley Kirkpatrick Former CEO
Social value
The real social value of Techniquest lies in the purpose of the science centre itself; a dynamic STEM hub that makes science accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, especially those from communities traditionally underrepresented in STEM.
Our project to reinvigorate and reimagine the centre reinforces the social value of Techniquest – rooted in the concept of ‘science capital’ which measures how individuals engage with and value science.
Techniquest now caters to audiences ranging from primary to secondary school pupils, and into the realm of corporate and private events. Our inclusive programming ensures that STEM experiences are not limited to specific age groups, but instead foster lifelong engagement and inspiration.
The incorporation of more mature, environmentally themed exhibits strengthens the social agenda, encourages sustainability awareness and environmental literacy through interactive, future-facing content
Many of us in the Cardiff studio grew up visiting this centre as children before bringing our own children, and we recognised the need to address some of the faults such as the location of the entrance near a busy, dangerous road. Our vision was not an expansion, but rather a reimagining of the entire space that both celebrates the industrial heritage and connects visitors with Cardiff Bay.
Gareth Woodfin Studio Director, Cardiff
Our architectural design concept
Working closely with the client, local stakeholders, and design team we created an ‘envelope’ design concept that wraps over the existing building. Inspired by origami, it offers a new form to the building – immersive, contemporary, and relevant. It doesn’t feel like an extension, but a single building, reimagined. Our extension includes a new entrance, piazza, café, and mezzanine exhibition areas, all designed to enhance visitor experience and integrate with the local environment.
We carefully considered cladding and glazing to make Techniquest an instantly recognisable landmark in Cardiff Bay, choosing materials that nod to the industrial heritage of the area, and glazing that gives passersby a glimpse of the exhibition space.
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