Bayes Centre

The Bayes Centre is a new world-class research, learning and business centre for the University of Edinburgh bringing together academics and students working in data technology, design informatics, maths and robotics with start-up / spin-out companies and industrial collaborators. It is a building worthy of Edinburgh’s reputation and leadership in these fields.

The Bayes Centre marks the final phase of the Potterrow Development following the completion of the Informatics Forum and Dugald Stewart Building also by Bennetts Associates. The new building follows the principles of the design for the Informatics Forum and uses the same materials: local sandstone to the outside of the block and polished white concrete to the interior, with prominent feature windows and double height balconies on a city scale.

As the ethos was to encourage interaction between different academic groups, spaces for serendipitous encounters are carefully designed. The tiered atrium has numerous gathering spaces, the open circulation and stairs allow people to meet in passing and the ground floor café, complete with a museum of ‘antique’ robots, is always busy with meetings, solitary working and socialising. The fourth floor roof garden has stunning views of Arthur’s Seat, anchoring the building in its unique setting.