Case Study: SEE Building, University of Salford
A true masterpiece of sustainability and design
The new £65 million, Science, Engineering and Environmental Building (SEE Building) at the University of Salford was designed under the concept of incorporating high sustainability credentials. This supports the university’s pledge in reducing the environmental impact, as part of the wider Salford Crescent and University District masterplan. The SEE building promotes innovation, environmental protection and excellent educational opportunities and offers students state-of-the-art facilities with the aid of the LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 in a mono-pitch design.
A stunning mono-pitch skylight measuring an incredible 44 metres long and 9 metres wide, as well as three other Glass Roofs PR60, were installed onto the roof of the four-storey building, illuminating the lecture halls and common areas. This results in enhancing the natural daylight, whilst also allowing for natural ventilation, creating an inspiring environment for learning and development. To avoid overheating and glare inside the building, special 60/30 high performing solar glazing was used. This innovative technology ensures a comfortable indoor climate whilst providing an optimal learning environment.
LAMILUX worked with the architect from the early planning stage of the project to design, supply, and install the four rooflights. “Just-on-time” deliveries were planned to enable offloading of the materials, with a crane, from the vehicle to the roof, to minimise loading out as space on site was very limited. Integrated ventilation panels were installed within the three smaller PR60 Glass Rooflights to provide the ideal solution to provide natural ventilation into the building alongside natural daylight. The largest rooflight was glazed with an impressive total of 120 fixed glass panels to make up the impressive 44 metre length and complete the installation. The glass panels were specified with Class 1 Fragility, suitable for walking on for cleaning and maintenance loads, according to CWCT TN 66 /TN 67 & TN92.
Before the final handover, the project underwent extensive watertightness testing to ensure the integrity and long-term performance of the installation. On-site CWCT hose tests were successfully completed, demonstrating the exceptional quality, precision, and reliability of the LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 system. These results highlight the skill and attention to detail of the LAMILUX installation team, whose expertise ensured the roof met stringent performance standards under real-world conditions.
The University of Salford, known for its strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, chose to implement design solutions that reflect its progressive ethos. LAMILUX is proud to have played a part in a project that supports forward-thinking architecture and environmental best practices. This building is not only a visual and functional achievement but also a certified BREEAM Excellent-rated facility—reinforcing its place as a benchmark in sustainable construction.
By contributing a technically advanced, energy-efficient daylighting solution, LAMILUX has helped create a space that supports occupant wellbeing while aligning with the University’s broader sustainability goals.
