MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Three winning designs are announced for a new research station in Antarctica

Three winning concept designs for a new research station in Antarctica are announced yesterday Wednesday 24 November, at the Halley VI Design Exhibition at the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

From six short-listed teams, a jury panel selected three winning designs for the British Antarctic Survey's new Halley VI Research Station.

British Antarctic Survey Director and Chair of the Jury Panel, Professor Chris Rapley CBE, announces the winning teams as: Buro Happold and Lifschutz Davidson; FaberMaunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects; Hopkins Architects and Expedition Engineers. He says, "It was an extremely difficult decision for the panel to choose three teams as all six concept designs showed tremendous ingenuity meeting our requirements. The three winners demonstrate real innovation in their approach to the Halley VI Research Station, which must be functionally efficient yet an aesthetically stimulating place to work."

The panel selected Buro Happold and Lifschutz Davidson for their concept of linked space-station-like structures on jackable legs. They were impressed by the thought given to the living space and how staff would have quiet, private areas as well as community space. The architectural features are complemented by comprehensive engineering, which offers a practical solution to living and working. Special attention has been given to construction, maintenance, dealing with the annual build up of snow, and how the station can be relocated - overall, a concept that can be developed into a practical and cost effective research station.

Engineers FaberMaunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects were selected for a strong architectural design. The modular approach enables units to be linked together to form a station that can accommodate user requirements and be easily relocated. The depth of thought given to the construction phase particularly impressed the panel.

Hopkins Architects and Expedition Engineers "walking building" demonstrated an innovative approach to relocating the structures. The panel reflected on the challenges to be overcome in realising the design, but considered the overall concept to be achievable. The team has taken care in matching the sustainability requirements outlined in user documents and how new materials can be introduced to Antarctica.

The three teams will have a site visit in January 2005, before developing their ideas. A winning design will be announced in September 2005. (BAS)