Engineering Compliance and Craftsmanship at the Heart of Edinburgh's Nucleus Project

The University of Edinburgh’s King’s Buildings campus saw a transformative addition with the Nucleus Project, designed to be the heart of the campus. The Nucleus features a variety of learning spaces, commercial units, and food and beverage areas, providing a versatile hub for students and staff. DorSuite, as a trusted UK door manufacturer, played a crucial role in delivering a wide range of bespoke doorsets tailored to the project’s complex needs.

The Challenge

The Nucleus Project presented multiple challenges, as the doorsets needed to meet strict requirements for fire safety, acoustic rating, and aesthetic finishes. The project specified fire ratings ranging from NFR to FD30s and FD60s, as well as acoustic ratings from 30dB to 45dB. In terms of design, a wide variety of finishes were required, including modern Formica Oyster Grey laminate, to classic Factor RAL and robust Armoform Encapsulated doors.

Further complexity arose when the client's preferred hinge required further testing to avoid compliance gaps, which had to be resolved quickly to ensure the project stayed on schedule.

The DorSuite Solution

DorSuite’s expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments and tight timelines proved essential in this project. We supplied 275 bespoke doorsets with fire ratings from NFR to FD60s and acoustic ratings from 30dB to 45dB, meeting rigorous safety and performance standards.

Our team identified and addressed the compliance issues posed by the client’s specified ironmongery. Collaborating with Linear Projects and the ironmongery supplier, we worked to secure primary test evidence for the products on our doors. This proactive approach, supported by UKTC’s ability to prioritise a project-specific fire test, ensured all doorsets were certified and fully compliant.

The Outcome

DorSuite successfully delivered 275 bespoke doorsets, tailored to meet the Nucleus Project’s complex requirements. These doorsets significantly enhanced both the functionality and aesthetics of the new campus hub. The project demonstrated DorSuite’s capacity to identify compliance gaps and deliver solutions under pressure, showcasing our ability to collaborate and innovate within tight timeframes.

Industry Impact

The Nucleus Project reflects the growing trend in higher education towards creating flexible, multi-purpose spaces that encourage collaboration beyond traditional classrooms. DorSuite’s doorsets contribute to these environments by offering safety, acoustic control, and an inviting atmosphere for students and staff alike.

Award Recognition

The Nucleus Project has received recognition through prestigious awards, including the Edinburgh Architectural Association (EAA) Award and the Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) Award. It has also been shortlisted for the Learning Places Scotland Awards, highlighting DorSuite’s role in delivering innovative and compliant solutions for complex, award-winning projects.

DORSUITE TEAM

Sales Lead

Shaun Buchanan

Graham Borthwick

Project Management

Jeremy Paynter

Photography

Paul Zanre