Buro Happold's designs for this outstanding project had to take into consideration many diverse and challenging factors. To address the issue of long-term running costs our team offered simple design solutions that reduced the energy consumption of the buildings.

The Millennium Galleries and Winter Garden form a focal point at the heart of Sheffield, linking the civic, arts and university quarters of the city. The Galleries are designed to be multifunctional, using exposed white concrete and marble floors to provide thermal stability and create reflective surfaces.

The striking Winter Garden structure is formed by a series of glue laminated timber arches that rise 22m above an interior landscape of exotic trees and plants. Over 1,400 glazed roof panels, some of which open for ventilation, make the building feel especially light and spacious.

The wood, from sustainable forests, is also an eco friendly solution: a research study on the environmental impact of the construction showed that the timber roof required 95% less energy to produce than steel or concrete alternatives.