Institute of Reproductive Sciences 1, Littlemore, Oxford

A new biotech HQ designed to house the Oxford Fertility Unit, which provides IVF services to Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties.

The unit is moving out of the John Radcliffe Hospital and needs a smart state-of-the-art facility not just for the IVF unit itself but also for associated R&D laboratories and Oxford University’s fertility research school.

Combining all these functions under one roof in a new building in a rural setting will not only lead to much improved synergy between the disciplines but also hugely enhance the experience for all those seeking IVF treatment.

Note: This building has not been built but the design process proved to be an extremely useful learning experience for us as architects and for the client and other consultants. This experience has been put to good use in the design and construction of the actual new home for the Institute: please go to Institute of Reproductive Sciences 2 for the next chapter in the story…