Faber Maunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects have been named winner of the British Antarctic Survey(BAS)competition to design the Halley VI Research Station in Antarctica.
The new prefabricated modular research station features a dramatic central social and recreational module.The station is designed to adapt to the changing external conditions and future science needs of BAS.
Faber Maunsell Project Director,Peter Ayres said:"I am delighted that we have won this prestigious competition.Our design creates inspirational,iconic architecture and engineering,that we believe truly reflects the significance of the science conducted by BAS at Halley.We've paid particular attention to the needs for a sustainable,energy-efficient solution that complies in full with the Antarctic Treaty Environmental Protocol.Minimising environmental impact during construction and lifespan has been a big issue for our design.Each highly insulated module incorporates low energy and sustainable principles to help reduce the station's environmental impact.When it comes to eventual decommissioning,the station can be easily moved and taken apart.We consider Halley VI to be a visitor to Antarctica, not a resident."
Architect,Hugh Broughton,said:"Our solution has been developed in direct response to the demands of the science that takes place at Halley,the comfort of the residents,buildability and the operations necessary in the life of an Antarctic research station.From the outset we researched the processes involved at Halley,and used this knowledge to inform our thinking.The iconic architecture grew from the function of the building.Our design maximises flexibility. Modules can be used for a large number of activities ranging from laboratories to recreation and plant rooms.When connected together the modules form the new station."
