Dublin City University opens a new STEM research facility
Polaris, Dublin City University’s new flagship STEM facility, marks a bold architectural and educational statement. Designed to deliver world-class learning, research, and collaboration spaces, the building is part of a larger vision to DCU’s multi-campus plan. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, student wellbeing and high-performance learning environments, VELUX Commercial supplied 128 VELUX Modular Skylights to flood Polaris with daylight and support natural ventilation.
Located at the Collins Avenue entrance to DCU’s Glasnevin campus, Polaris was developed to support over 3,000 students from the Faculty of Science and Health and the Faculty of Engineering and Computing. Designed by Sheppard Robson the 10,000 m² facility is home to immersive labs, active learning environments, and purpose-built spaces for health, sport, and technology. The building is a cornerstone of Dublin City University’s ten-year masterplan to enhance campus connectivity, promote interdisciplinary education, and position the university as a global leader in research and innovation.
Daylight strategy
From the earliest design stages, VELUX Commercial worked to develop a rooflight specification that could complement Polaris’ sustainable architecture and enrich the building's internal user experience. VELUX Commercial provided 128 VELUX Modular Skylights units, incorporating both fixed and venting modules. The rooflight system plays a central role in the building’s architectural identity and functionality. The large format rooflights draw consistent daylight into key areas, improving learning environments and reducing dependency on artificial lighting.
The inclusion of venting modules allows for responsive, natural ventilation, a critical component in maintaining healthy indoor air quality in high-occupancy spaces like lecture theatres, labs, and learning hubs. A specific ventilation requirement led to an evolution in design, 300mm fixed modules were integrated to meet the required airflow. While originally a technical solution, the introduction of the modules ultimately enhanced the interior ceiling aesthetic, creating a distinct rhythm of light. These modifications to the original concept created a striking visual when viewed from below, transforming the building’s internal atmosphere while supporting thermal comfort and air quality.
Sustainability and user wellbeing were key design drivers. As a Net Zero Energy Building with a high-performance envelope, Polaris integrates advanced systems including heat pump technology, 3000 m² solar PV panels, and natural ventilation. The rooflight solution plays a pivotal role in supporting these sustainability ambitions. By introducing generous amounts of natural daylight into the heart of the building, the VELUX Modular Skylights help minimise dependence on artificial lighting during daylight hours, reducing overall energy consumption. The integration of venting units further contributes to environmental performance, enabling effective natural ventilation that supports thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. In Polaris, daylight and smart design work in harmony to shape not just a place of education, but a brighter, healthier, and more future-ready environment for all who use it. Polaris stands as a benchmark in sustainable university design, where natural light and smart ventilation actively shape the future of learning and innovation.