New London Awards 2023
Shortlisted in the Workplace category
Commissioned by LS Estates, this scheme demonstrates the significant benefit of retrofit over new build having achieved an estimated embodied carbon saving of ~5800 tC02e in the structure alone. This is compared with the current industry average for new build and is equivalent to 4600 one-way flights from London to New York.
The brief set out to rationalise the corner entrance while increasing and opening out the reception for a much-improved arrival experience, with a street presence more fitting for a building of its size.
All office floors were stripped out and refitted, with services rationalised, WCs updated, and new high quality commuter provisions introduced.
A new rooftop pavilion was created using a lightweight hybrid structure of European Oak and steel. It was carefully designed with the aim of reducing the amount of strengthening works required to the structure below thus minimising the overall embodied carbon. The pavilion and rooftop terrace replaces a relocated plant room and opens up views of key City landmarks including nearby St Paul’s Cathedral. Urban greening has been incorporated both in the pavilion and on existing and new external terraces.
The use of timber extends beyond the structure to the external cladding, where scalloped solid European oak profiles have been carefully crafted. The use of timber provides a tactile and subtle backdrop to the new landscaped amenity space.
The building was purchased well ahead of completion by HM Courts and Tribunals Service and is earmarked to become a new, flexible and modern Tribunal Centre which is perfectly positioned adjacent to The Old Bailey.Vote for this project in the People's Choice award. The deadline for voting is the 8th October, 23:45.