The Key

The Key is dedicated to world-leading structural and materials engineering research and exploring how technology can help to lower energy consumption and make buildings cheaper to run.

Newcastle University is one of the top universities for Civil Engineering, with a particular specialism in the simulation of textile and rigid composite structures. The Key is their latest cutting-edge research tool, instrumented and monitored for the purposes of testing fabric structures.

Inside The Key
Inside The Key

The building is also sustainable, with an 18-metre curved fabric roof and timber-clad structure, both designed to have the smallest possible impact on the environment. As well as providing a unique venue for research, the building also showcases the Helix to visiting business leaders, policy-makers and the local community.

Our logo is a live picture of Newcastle, right now.
Captured with almost 500 sensors.