From the outside, the building appears as dynamic and functional entity with a distinctive gold-anodized and black-lacquered aluminium façade, broken into niches and balconies to create an inviting atmosphere.
Inside, it provides the framework for a unique professional environment with state-of-the-art facilities for research and networking. The programme includes laboratories, teaching facilities, office spaces for researchers and administrative staff, as well as various support functions such as a conference centre, decentralised canteen, lounge, and café areas that serve as social hubs.
DTU Life Science & Bioengineering
A Hub for Science and Collaboration
At the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), the Life Science & Bioengineering B202 is more than just a building—it is a centre for knowledge, discovery, and collaboration. Completed in 2018, it brings together DTU Aqua, DTU Food Institute, and DTU Veterinary Institute, creating an environment where researchers, students, and industry professionals work across disciplines to address global challenges in life sciences and engineering.
Designed to facilitate interaction, B202 provides cutting-edge laboratories, teaching spaces, and social hubs that support both structured and spontaneous collaboration. The flexible research facilities allow scientists to adapt their workspaces to evolving needs, ensuring that innovation is never constrained by infrastructure. The building also serves as a space for education, equipping students with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art settings that prepare them for the future.
Beyond research, B202 fosters a vibrant academic community. Its shared spaces encourage the exchange of ideas, strengthening professional connections and inspiring new partnerships. With a commitment to sustainability and functionality, it stands as a testament to DTU’s role as a global leader in life science and engineering—bridging disciplines, advancing knowledge, and shaping the future.
Related content
- Location:
- Lyngby, Denmark
- Size:
- 38,800 m2
- Programme:
- Research Labs, Educational Facilities
- Client:
- DTU
- Collaborating Architect:
- Christensen & Co Arkitekter
- Landscape Architect:
- Schul Landskabsarkitekter
- Engineer:
- COWI, Wessberg
- Commission:
- 1st Prize in Competition
- Sustainability:
- DGNB certified, hi-tech ventilation systems
- Photos:
- Adam Mørk
Bridging Disciplines, Advancing Knowledge
The Life Science & Bioengineering B202 at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) marks a significant milestone in the university’s architectural evolution, representing the largest new construction on campus since DTU’s inception in the 1960s.
Bringing together DTU Aqua, DTU Food Institute, and DTU Veterinary Institute, the building fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration among the 800 employees who work within its premises. This emphasis on interdisciplinary connections is reflected in its innovative layout and design, creating a highly functional, state-of-the-art environment for research and collaboration.
More than just a research facility, the Life Science & Bioengineering building enhances DTU’s research capabilities while providing an inspiring social space for knowledge exchange, idea generation, and professional connectivity.
The central architectural feature – and heart - of the building, The Biosphere, is a stunning oak-clad atrium. The oak lamella that covers the walls and ceilings provides a warm, natural aesthetic, contrasting beautifully with the high-tech laboratories and research facilities. The integration of oak lamellae, 18,400 pieces in total, adds texture and warmth to the space while maintaining a clean, minimalistic design. Large skylights above flood the area with natural light, creating a calming and welcoming atmosphere. The floating meeting boxes within this space allow for spontaneous collaboration and discussions, reinforcing the building's role as a social and intellectual hub.
The layout of the interior spaces reflects a dedication to openness and interaction, which is a core philosophy of the project. Wide corridors and common spaces facilitate ease of movement between the different research wings. These circulation areas are designed to be more than just transitional spaces; they are also environments where informal networking and collaboration can occur. The interior design of DTU B202 exemplifies a balance between advanced technology and natural materials, enhancing the user experience and promoting a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment.
The laboratories are spacious, well-lit, and equipped with the latest technology. The design prioritizes both functionality and flexibility, making it easy for researchers to adapt to the workspace according to their needs. Specialised research equipment, such as ventilation systems and laboratory benches, ensure the environment is suitable for high-level scientific inquiry.
Built in accordance with DGNB sustainability certification, the DTU Life Science & Bioengineering B202 complex features energy-efficient systems, including advanced ventilation systems and specialised research facilities like saltwater tanks and fish pens for marine studies. The project embodies a balance between sustainability, functionality, and modern design, providing cutting-edge facilities while maintaining an environment conducive to academic and research synergy.
