Project Overview
This project involved a four-storey extension to the old Addenbrooke’s Hospital Building in the heart of Cambridge. Designed to promote interaction between students, delegates and staff through the provision of generous foyer and circulation spaces, the extension houses teaching, conferencing, office breakout, and dining spaces
This building was meticulously designed to cater to the requirements of the School’s Executive Education programme.
It boasts a range of versatile spaces aligned with contemporary areas to promote a collaborative learning environment. Inside, the extension encompasses teaching spaces, conference rooms, office breakout zones, and dining areas.
The internal layout fosters interaction among students, faculty, and participants. This emphasis is particularly evident in the spacious foyer and circulation areas, which offer an ideal setting for informal meetings and discussions.
The extension seamlessly integrates with the character of the original nineteenth-century building.
The building utilises a blend of handmade bricks and stone columns, replicating the traditional aesthetic of the surrounding structures. The external walls are skilfully constructed using two different bonds; English Garden Wall with hydraulic lime mortar for the ground to the first floor, while the rest of the elevation is laid in stretcher bond using cement lime mortar.
Additionally, the building envelope incorporates 60 heat recovery units (‘Trox’), creating a ‘breathing façade’ that supplements the natural ventilation strategy. Notably, this pioneering use of the Trox system marked the first of its kind in the UK, contributing significantly to the building’s prestigious BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.
The construction process posed considerable challenges, given the complexity of the site.
Not only did the extension occupy a substantial portion of the area, but careful coordination with the University’s Central Deliveries department, located in the adjacent building, was essential for all vehicular movements.
To mitigate disturbances caused to neighbouring buildings, and the fact that the existing Business School continued its operations during the project, acoustic scaffolds and a pedestrian tunnel were installed along Tennis Court Road. These measures were crucial in ensuring a seamless construction process while maintaining the School’s operational continuity.
The project was highly commended, achieving nine national construction awards, including The Michael Middleton Special Award at the Civic Trust Award, RIBA National Award and, CFCI Best Conservation, Alteration and Extension Award.
Deborah Griffith, Project Leader, Estate Management, University of Cambridge
“SDC’s dedication has certainly paid off and the project is a credit to both you as a company but also to those who worked on it. Being aware of the University’s previous execution of building projects this has definitely redefined the way for how UoC and contractors can work together to achieve a fantastic result. It’s been a pleasure to work with SDC and I hope I get the opportunity to work with you all again.”
Core Team
Francis Shiner
Board Director
Francis began his career in 1976 when he joined Llewellyn Construction Ltd as a management trainee. On 14 February 1983, he started with SDC as a Quantity Surveyor, initially working from a small office space at 30 Grove Place, one of several houses the company used as offices at the time. Over the course of four years, Francis contributed to projects for British Leyland and British Rail. By 1987, he had been promoted to Joint Surveying Manager, sharing the running of the department with Alan Angel, before becoming Chief Surveyor in 1989.
In 1991, Francis expanded his role by initiating the Special Projects Division. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a more comprehensive service offering, while generating additional income for SDC. His contributions earned him a place on the Board in 1994. Subsequently, he established Limegrove Supplies, which allowed the company to purchase certain materials at preferential rates and facilitated sales to the public as well as in-house use. In 1999, he was appointed Deputy Managing Director, and in 2004, he became Managing Director, as part of the transition to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT).
During his tenure as Managing Director, Francis successfully navigated the company through numerous challenges, including the financial demands of the share purchase required to create the EBT and the global economic recession of 2008. Under his leadership, SDC completed several notable projects, resulting in significant growth in both turnover and net worth. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Francis prioritised safety while ensuring operational continuity, allowing the company to continue supporting its clients, including critical medical research facilities.
By 2021, SDC had modernised its infrastructure and strengthened its financial position. In September 2021, Francis transitioned to the role of SDC Chairman, marking a shift in his responsibilities while continuing to play an active role in the company’s strategic direction. His final major initiative as Managing Director was overseeing SDC’s golden jubilee celebrations, which raised more than £110,000 for charity, reflecting the company’s longstanding commitment to community support.
Francis will continue as Chairman of the SDC EBT for the foreseeable future.
Dan Changer
Contracts Manager
After completing a BArch (Hons) Architecture at the University of Cambridge, Dan began his career in architecture in London. During his later Part 3 studies, he worked as an Architect for a London-based architecture firm, contributing to a project at Christ Lane in Cambridge with SDC as the Principle Contractor.
In 2010, Dan became the first Architect employed directly by SDC. Dan emersed himself in the interface between consultant and subcontract design management to ensure efficient design delivery, which became a central part of his role.
One of his early projects was at Moulton College, where he worked as a Design Manager on a sports rehabilitation centre, learning to balance design considerations with practical implementation. This led to further schemes, such as his involvement in the University of Cambridge Sports Centre project which had a complicated roof geometry, necessitating close collaboration with consultants and specialist subcontractor design. It was during this time that Dan formed close partnerships with other members of the SDC team that proved valuable for managing complex projects and delivering results under pressure.
Dan’s work with the University of Cambridge became a defining aspect of his career, with notable projects such as the Maxwell Centre and Judge Business School amongst many others. His background as a Cambridge alumnus has helped foster strong relationships, ensuring that the University receive projects that meet its expectations for quality and functionality.
Known for his problem-solving abilities, Dan frequently tackles architecturally challenging projects. Responsible for the Design department within the company, his approach focuses on planning, collaboration, and ensuring that designs align with the client’s vision. He values the supportive and fair culture at SDC, which has helped cultivate long-term staff loyalty. For Dan, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing the spaces he helps create put to good use and appreciated by clients.
Paul Tither
Design Coordinator
Jonathan Richardson
M&E Manager
After completing his A-Levels in Nottingham, Jonathan pursued an engineering apprenticeship at Leeds College of Building. This block-release programme integrated theoretical study with hands-on experience, enhancing his technical skills and problem-solving abilities. During his apprenticeship, he worked with a national MEP contractor, which gave him valuable industry exposure but ultimately highlighted his preference for a more collaborative and people-focused work environment.
A significant shift in Jonathan’s career occurred when his mentor invited him to join a regional family-owned MEP contractor in Nottingham. The role suited his collaborative working style, but the company later faced financial challenges during a recession, prompting him to explore new opportunities.
Having already collaborated with SDC as a subcontractor, Jonathan’s skills drew the attention of the company’s M&E Director. After his former employer’s closure, he joined SDC and was soon entrusted with leading its newly created M&E self-delivery department. Over 18 months, he assembled a team of professionals with subcontractor expertise, building a department now comprising 20 members, including trainees and project managers. This team operates with a focus on technical excellence and practical problem-solving.
In 2016, SDC supported Jonathan during a challenging period in his personal life. Faced with extensive travel demands and an expanding family, he raised his concerns with the company, which facilitated his relocation closer to its base. This adjustment improved his work-life balance and reinforced his commitment to the company.
Jonathan became a Director in January 2024. In this role, he is responsible for project delivery, tendering, preconstruction, and sustainability efforts, alongside overseeing the MEP department. His contributions have been integral to the successful delivery of complex projects in sectors such as Formula One, including work with clients like Aston Martin and Red Bull. He values the variety and problem-solving aspects of his role and is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within SDC.
David Smeaton
M&E Manager
David Heard
Second Stage Leader
