Project Overview
Quad Two is a landmark building to be constructed on the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus and was negotiated following SDC’s previous success of Quad One and the Pavilion Building.
The new building houses four floors of Grade-A flexible and bespoke office space.
SDC’s work comprised the removal of ground obstructions and soil stabilisation, followed by the erection of a steel frame, curtain walling and internal works to CAT A fitout.
The building exterior continues the striking visual aesthetic that is unique to the Quad area of the Harwell Campus, with green fritted glass chosen to reflect the surrounding nature.
Internally, the light-filled space has been designed to enhance employee wellbeing and provide a calming environment.
The building also features a roof terrace overlooking the landscaped garden situated between Quad One and Quad Two, boasting high-quality seating areas for outdoor meetings and gatherings.
Jason Stafford, Harwell Campus
“We have seen SDC work hard to ensure full understanding of the client needs and to meet programme and budget requirements on all of our projects. SDC’s focus on quality and care in all areas of interface with neighbours and welfare for site operatives and their proactive approach to sustainability and design management sets a higher benchmark than most contractors achieve and this is valued by Harwell.”
Core Team
Andy Shiner
Board Director
Andy embarked on a career in construction at 18, starting with a carpentry apprenticeship. During three years with local carpentry firms, he gained experience erecting timber frames and honed first and second fix carpentry skills, developing a strong foundation in building finishes and trade collaboration.
In 2008, Andy transitioned to site management, joining SDC Builders Ltd as an Assistant Site Manager while pursuing a part-time Foundation Degree in Construction Management. Working on complex projects valued at up to £20m, he developed skills in logistics, programming, and health and safety. He was promoted to Site Manager in 2010, managing notable projects for clients such as Babraham Bioscience Technologies and the University of Cambridge.
By 2015, Andy had advanced to the roles of Construction Manager and then Contracts Manager, overseeing multiple projects with a combined value of up to £50m. His role expanded to include pre-construction planning, financial oversight, and post-occupancy responsibilities. In 2018, he became a Project Director, contributing to company-wide decision-making before joining SDC’s Board of Directors in 2020.
As a Board Director, Andy oversees the delivery of three or four projects simultaneously, guiding teams through tender preparation, construction, and completion. His extensive experience working on-site enables him to effectively support site staff and gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Andy also leads strategic initiatives, mentors staff and manages the key Plant Hire department. Building and maintaining client relationships is a central focus, supporting the company’s high rate of repeat business, which accounts for 80% of turnover.
Andrew Clark
Commercial Manager
Andrew has worked at SDC since 1995 and is one of the longest serving members of the company, where he has progressed to Project Commercial Director. He is a valued and trusted member of the team with significant industry experience. Andrew has contributed to a vast range of projects across Oxford and Cambridge, where he is responsible for providing commercial leadership, strategic commercial direction and support to the project team.
Richard Smith
Quantity Surveyor
Adam Cripps
Design Manager
Adam has been with SDC since 2017 and is a skilled Design Manager who is involved in projects from the tender stage through to completion. Throughout the construction phase, he integrates seamlessly with the project delivery team, driving design information and implementing practical solutions. His expertise has been consistently proven on numerous complex projects, where his attention to detail and ability to collaborate with clients have ensured their expectations are not only met but often surpassed.
Chris Lane
Design Coordinator
Raj Parmar
Second Stage Leader
Since starting with SDC in 2013, Raj has proven himself to be an accomplished Pre-Construction Manager with a wealth of construction knowledge. Raj’s responsibilities include the overall management of the pre-construction process and assuming the pivotal role of client liaison throughout the whole of the project. With over two decades at the company, Raj is a well-respected member of the team who has worked and a huge variety of projects for a range of sectors including education, leisure, and science and technology.
