Samuelson House, BanburyThis project was to amalgamate satellite offices into a common hub, including Social and Community Services for Children, Young People and Families. The brief requirement was for the building to achieve the standards of Oxfordshire County Council and achieve as a minimum a ‘Very Good’ BREEAM rating. Our approach to the design, was to work with the client to understand the particular needs of the end users. The form and orientation of the building had already been set, so working within these constraints, careful consideration of the impacts of the overall BREEAM rating was the driving factor in the M&E Design and on completion an ‘Excellent’ rating was achieved. An early intention was to maximise the opportunities for a low energy design. Through whole life cycle costing and energy analysis it was possible to introduce a measurable improvement on the minimum building regulation standards. Thermal modelling analysis allowed our services strategy and the architectural design to be focused into maximising efficiencies in terms of building fabric and structure and mechanical and electrical services. This project is defined by its early strategic thinking in terms of location. The building occupies a redeveloped brown-field site close to the town centre and maximises all possible ground transportation links. With an abundance of cycle storage, drying rooms, showers and changing areas, the staff are positively encouraged to cycle to work. A significant element of the brief was to minimise water consumption. This was achieved by integrating rain water harvesting; leak detection; water supply sanitary ware shut-off in periods of non-occupation; working closely with the architect to select the sanitary ware and fittings to comply with the BREEAM water use calculator. We understand the importance of working closely with all members of the design team to provide a simple robust services solution and controls, this in turn, has resulted in a reduced maintenance burden and minimised operating costs. |
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