Hangar 84 & 85, Cranfield University

Hangars 84 and 85 are both former Type C wartime hangars, key to the operation of Crandfield Airport which is an integral part of Cranfield University.  R G Carter and Carter Design Group were appointed to refurbish and decarbonise the Hangars to both extend their serviceable life and support steps in the University achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030.

The external appearance of the Hangar was of importance to both the planners and Cranfield University.  Carter Design Group therefore came up with the idea to insulate the inside of the Hangar with cold store panelling to create a ‘box in a box’ type design utlising the existing steel frame from World War II.  This has transformed the inner working environment from quite a dull poorly lit space in to a light open modern working environment more suitable for the aircraft maintenance and research being undertaken within this environment.

The project was nominated for the Building Innovation Awards Most Innovative Restoration and Refurbishment project and won against competition such as the refurbishment of Elizabeth Tower.