Multi-purpose visitor centre at Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden will showcase renewable energy

Construction is now underway on the Edward Cullinan-designed Gateway Building at Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden.

Due for completion in Spring 2009, the facility has been developed as a place where the public can meet scientists and learn about renewable and sustainable energy processes, as well as observe its biodiversity garden.

The Gateway Building will have a fully functional science lab, media and seminar facilities, and a permanent exhibition on plants.

Edward Cullinan Architects describes the Gateway Building as “a showcase for sustainable design” and the building's features include a biomass boiler, rainwater harvesting system, ETFE roof lights, a photovoltaic installation, solar collectors, and a roof-mounted wind turbine. The structure is made from stone, timber and glass.

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