Consarc Architects were selected as winners of the competition.

The scheme has been designed to achieve an 'excellent' rating from BREEAM, a worldwide environmental assessment method. As well as playing home to a diverse range of innovative green businesses, the iCon is a leading example of energy-efficiency and sustainability in its own right.

The spatial arrangement of the scheme was designed to mirror the intellectual processes of the iCon. Incubation units are contained to the north of the site, shielded from traffic noise. These flexible, naturally ventilated spaces preserve the optimum aspect for the research facilities. Adjacent to these is an ETFE covered exhibition street, with gallery level links. To the south is the suite of large-volume spaces, which house the reception, conferencing, meeting and catering requirements.

The building demonstrates environmental features such as a timber frame construction, largely passive ventilation system, efficient heat recovery systems and use of phasechange materials to limit overheating.