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PROJECT REPORT: COMMERCIAL & WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTS
have been designed and set up to create flexibility in ways of working from extensive collaborative work spaces to easy connectivity with team zones and a desk booking system.”
The areas also include the appropriate technology to support agile working, and the communal areas include a cafe and ‘town hall’, as well as outdoor spaces. There are also meeting rooms, ‘refresh’ spaces and significant storage.
Planning storage was one of the bigger challenges for Edge; the company would have to adjust to less storage than they previously enjoyed. However, this in turn has advantages: “controlling storage capacity and retrieval induces natural selectivity about retention and reuse of goods,” he says.
PROJECT FACTFILE
Client: Joules Architects: Edge architecture + design
Structural engineers: Cundalls M&E engineers: Watermans (mechanical); Electract (electrical) Project manager: John Lester Partnership Main contractor: Baileys
The overall internal layout was designed with the year five levels of occupation in mind. “The internal layout provides for flexibility, interaction, and easily reconfigurable dispositions of furniture groupings.” Furniture placement and screens also assist with acoustic regulation.
Facilities & sustainability The open plan nature of the building meant Edge had to work closely with fire engineers Salus to ensure any potential fire risks were addressed and that it would be compliant with BS 9999. “This approach enabled the team to provide engineered solutions and not have to rely on Approved Document B alone,” says O’Neill. “The careful placement of stair cores, establishment of clear exit routes, and detection and alarm system performance all contributed.” Other necessary environmental factors were also well thought out —plant areas have been futureproofed for possible expansion, and energy usage monitoring utilises the latest technology. All services can be controlled and monitored via a building management system. Artificial lighting in production areas was required to be almost at daylight quality, but automatic PIR lighting provides reduced energy usage at weekends and evenings. Individual lighting control is only provided in certain areas.
Energy saving strategies implemented include high performance insulation and glazing, airtightness, appropriate shading, and optimal window sizing. “New technologies and equipment reduce running and maintenance costs and the waste and reuse/recycle system is easy and cost effective to maintain,” O’Neill adds. Local contractors and
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suppliers were also used wherever possible, and additions such as a ‘bug hotel’ are “not merely add-ons, but reflect a philosophy of countryside, environment and sustainability.” Since the office’s opening in 2021, benefits have “accrued at all levels,” says O’Neill. “From operational, in terms of savings and productivity, to the long-term preservation of the brand and its unique values.” Teams are able to work together in a way they couldn’t previously, and the way the building has been designed means everyone can always see the ‘end product’. “Additionally, bringing the creative workshops into this unified space amplifies the spirit of creativity across the business.” As well as giving Joules the presence in Market Harborough it wanted and creating a workspace to attract new talent, the brand has seen improvements in staff efficiency and a reduction in operation and maintenance costs. “The feedback following occupation has been phenomenally positive,” says O’Neill – best summarised by Tom Joule himself: “I can’t believe it’s so faithful to the concept. It’s taken Joules back to our roots and given us a platform for the future.” g
ADF NOVEMBER 2022
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