CH2i Cranfield University Test Bed Phase 1
Anotherkind Architects were commissioned by Cranfield University to support the first phase of the CH2i Test Bed, an ambitious research facility dedicated to advancing clean hydrogen technologies and integrated energy systems. As part of the University’s wider decarbonisation and innovation agenda, Test Bed Phase 1 focused on establishing the foundational infrastructure required to host future experimental platforms, pilot-scale demonstrators, and industry-academic collaboration.
Our role included early-stage spatial planning, site assessments, and the development of a flexible architectural framework capable of accommodating evolving research needs. Working closely with engineering teams and the University’s innovation leads, we shaped a clear vision for a modular and adaptable test-bed environment that supports safe experimentation, efficient data capture, and cross-disciplinary research activity.
Key considerations included safety zoning for hydrogen handling, integration of renewable energy sources, provisions for dynamic equipment layouts, and an architectural strategy that facilitates straightforward expansion into future phases. By defining robust design principles at the outset, Anotherkind helped ensure that the CH2i Test Bed can grow coherently as new technologies and partnerships emerge.
