How we helped
Scotland’s Rural University and College (SRUC) in Dumfries was looking to create a flagship facility to drive and enable transformational research, collaborative working, innovation, and networking opportunities. The inspiration behind the project was to provide a place equipped with modern working facilities, state-of-the-art research labs for subjects such as biorefinery and milk technology, and a UK-first digital twin of a grass-based dairy farm.
Completed by Portakabin, this cutting-edge research facility is dedicated to sustainable dairy practices, tackling everything from optimising dairy nutrition to exploring genetic solutions to reduce cows’ methane emissions. With alignment to the UK’s Net Zero initiative and Scotland’s Green Industrial Strategy, the new modular facility sets a new standard for environmentally responsible innovation.
After an initial scheme designed to RIBA 4 proved to be unaffordable, Portakabin was approached to provide a modular approach through the Public Contracts Scotland Framework. Designed to be both efficient and adaptable, Portakabin worked closely with Oberlanders Architects to create a facility that aesthetically blends seamlessly into its rural surroundings, while offering state-of-the-art spaces for research.
The exterior is fully cladded in an olive-green finish, accompanied by wooden planters and decking ensuring it complements the natural landscape. The interior is modern, with black accents, natural wood panelling and a blend of crisp white and shades of green walls, providing a bright, and high-tech working environment tailored to scientific research.
