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  • Project Image
  • Project Image
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  • Project Image
Designing a net zero office refurbishment of a listed industrial building in Leeds.

Useful Studio was commissioned by Workman LLP, on behalf of Hermes Investment Management, to design the refurbishment of this listed industrial building, with the aim of changing trends in workplace design and with an ambition to be an exemplar net zero listed building.

The estate is rooted in a legacy of bold and pioneering engineering and industry. This history, together with the sustainable commitments of Hermes, inform the key themes:

  • Legacy
  • Net Zero
  • Minimising Embodied and Operational Carbon
  • Greening

The client invested a significant period of research, investigation, and appraisal of their long-term sustainability goals, particularly their alignment with global climate change targets. A mixed-mode ventilation strategy has been developed with 16 chimneys at roof level to provide passive ventilation and 500m2 of solar PV provide renewable energy.

Our light touch approach to the refurbishment reduced the existing layering and finishes to expose the heritage superstructure in the columns, beams, and roof trusses. Extensive material reuse has been incorporated including doors, glazed partitions, raised floor tiles, radiators, and ductwork.

The project is targeted for a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating and an EPC A/B.

Team:
AECOM
Expedition Engineering
Gleeds
Turley
Waterman Group
Sector:
Workplace
Client:
Workman LLP & Hermes Investment Management