The Dalton Building at Manchester Metropolitan University has been named Building of the Year at the RIBA North West Region Awards 2026, one of the region’s highest architectural honours recognising outstanding design, innovation and contribution to the built environment.
Designed by BDP, the Dalton Building is the largest construction and refurbishment project ever undertaken by the University and represents a major investment in science and engineering teaching and research facilities at the heart of Manchester.
The RIBA judges described the project as “a compelling model for university buildings, combining spatial generosity, environmental quality and technical rigour within a coherent and compelling whole”.
SB Laboratories manufactured and installed laboratory furniture throughout the building, supporting a wide range of environments including teaching laboratories, specialist research spaces, preparation rooms, instrumentation and analytical laboratories, workshops, technical support areas and the open-plan SuperLab.
As a Manchester-based laboratory furniture manufacturer located just a short distance from the site, SB Laboratories was proud to contribute to a project that reflects the city’s continued investment in science, engineering and higher education infrastructure.
Congratulations to Manchester Metropolitan University, BDP and everyone involved in the delivery of this award-winning project.
Read the full Dalton Building case study here.
