Features and benefits of the eco-friendly sustainable design of Shires House.
Innovation doesn't always come easily and one of the features that gave
us the greatest pause for thought was the eco-friendly geothermal
heating and cooling system. As we are one of the first companies to use
this type of technology we didn't really know what to expect but
fortunately, the finished result has proved a great success and led to
the offices receiving the National Gold Award for best new commercial
development at the 2007 International Green Apple Awards for the Built
Environment and Architectural Heritage.
Click here for an illustration of the environmental features of the building
Geothermal system.
Geothermal energy is quite literally the heat that the earth absorbs from the sun. This energy can be extracted through the use of ground source heat pumps to provide heating, cooling and hot water for both residential and commercial buildings. Our geothermal system penetrates some 45 metres into the ground, extracts heat and then converts it to either a higher or lower temperature depending on whether heating or cooling is required. This renewable energy source, with an expected life span of approximately 40 years, is anticipated to help Watson Batty make carbon savings in the order of 30-35%.
Rainwater harvesting.
A rainwater recovery system is also in place to collect water to flush the office's toilet facilities, thereby significantly reducing the company's freshwater consumption. A mains feed is connected to replenish the tank during periods of dry weather and any excess is discharged to a surface water drain.
Ventilation.
Although the building does use mechanical ventilation, it is also naturally ventilated. The use of high and low level opening windows promotes natural convection currents through the main offices, which in turn provides individuals with more control over their immediate environments. This will also allow significant energy savings to be made.
Glazing.
The extensive use of natural light is also an important design feature. The majority of the 28mm thick double-glazing is north facing to improve both the quality of daylight and minimise solar gain. The glazing to the southern elevation has a 6mm natural coated solar control glass toughened outer plane that provides additional control. Where necessary, external brise-soleil has also been specified to further limit sunlight penetration and heat gain.
Insulation.
The whole building has been thermally insulated to meet the required u-values, as outlined in Part L of the Building Regulations. High levels of insulation in the walls and roof helps to minimise heat loss in the winter and prevent heat gain in the summer. Taking into account the initial construction, operation and ultimate demolition of the building, the design has also been assessed and awarded a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) rating of 'excellent'.
Roof.
Up on the roof, we have used aluminium standing seam roofing, which in addition to being fully recyclable, is renowned for its minimal maintenance requirements, excellent durability and weathering properties.
Location.
Constructed on a redeveloped brownfield site, the new office also benefits from close proximity to local pubic transport links and is just a few minutes walk away from Guiseley's rail station and bus stops.