NEWS
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HEADQUARTERS Post-Covid passive design for not-for-profit
The Scott Brownrigg-designed headquarters for the international not-for-profit agriculture and environmental organisation CABI has completed in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, combining biodiversity with flexible space.
Scott Brownrigg worked alongside project managers and lead consultant Ridge and Partners to complete a low energy building that provides two storeys of office space, with the aim of “integrating an experimental bio-diverse landscape with a new collaborative flexible working environment,” said the firm. Designed for “passive sustainability,” the building has been positioned to minimise solar gains by orientating it east-west, and will provide shade in the
summer while allowing sunlight in via substantial glazing in the winter. The materials used for the building fabric will reduce energy consumption to embrace the aim of low carbon use in operation.
Due to the pandemic, the design “had to incorporate a shift in priorities for office space users,” said the architects, “who have placed increased importance on clean air.” Natural ventilation was a key design factor, and was achieved by perforated metal elements of the facade, which permits cool air into the building throughout day and night. Former CABI CEO Dr Trevor Nicholls, who played a key role in bringing the new CABI headquarters to fruition before
his recent retirement, said, “We now have an office that we can truly be proud of, which is fitting for an international organisation visited by guests and staff from around the world. It is truly in keeping with our mission and values to protect the environment and biodiversity.” Situated in an Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty, the building’s design “responds to its surroundings with a living roof, which will attract insects and birds and enhance biodiversity,” said the architects. Inside, it hosts up to 180 members of staff. Staff and visitors are provided with amenities such as a cafe restaurant, meeting rooms and a conference room/auditorium.
ADF FEBRUARY 2021
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
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