Summary
1. The Northcliffe successfully achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating while preserving its Grade II listed façade, showcasing a perfect blend of heritage and modern sustainability.
2. The project faced significant challenges due to the existing structure’s constraints, particularly in securing BREEAM credits for ventilation and daylighting.
3. Innovative design solutions and meticulous planning allowed the team to overcome these challenges and excel in other BREEAM categories, such as waste management and material recycling.
4. The collaboration between John Robertson Architects, ISG Ltd, and Watkins Payne was pivotal in navigating the complexities of the project and achieving the sustainability goals.
5. The BREEAM certification process played a crucial role in guiding the project towards its ambitious sustainability targets, ensuring a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility.
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As I sat down with Sarah Thompson, the project manager for The Northcliffe redevelopment, her enthusiasm for the journey towards achieving BREEAM Outstanding was palpable. “It was like solving a complex puzzle,” she began, her eyes lighting up. “Every piece had to fit just right, and we had to be incredibly creative to make it all work.”
The Northcliffe, originally constructed between 1925 and 1926 as the headquarters of the Daily Mail, had not seen redevelopment since 2001. The client, DWS Grundbesitz GmbH, was determined to preserve the building’s Grade II listed façade while transforming it into a modern, sustainable office space. The challenge was enormous, but the team was ready to tackle it head-on.
“The first hurdle was the existing structure,” Sarah explained. “We had to work within the constraints of the retained structure and riser configuration, which meant we couldn’t make major structural alterations. This made it particularly difficult to secure BREEAM credits related to ventilation and daylighting.”
Despite these challenges, the project team, led by John Robertson Architects, with ISG Ltd as the contractor and Watkins Payne as both the building services and assessor, was committed to achieving the highest sustainability credentials. “We knew we had to be innovative,” Sarah said. “We focused on excelling in other BREEAM categories where we could make a significant impact.”
One of the key areas where the team excelled was waste management. “We implemented a rigorous recycling programme,” Sarah noted. “Almost all materials from the old structure were either reused or recycled. This not only helped us achieve our sustainability goals but also reduced the overall environmental impact of the project.”
In addition to waste management, the team also prioritised biodiversity. “We created three landscaped roof terraces,” Sarah continued. “These not only provide beautiful outdoor spaces for the building’s occupants but also promote biodiversity in the heart of the city.”
The BREEAM certification process was instrumental in guiding the project towards its ambitious sustainability targets. “The certification process provided a comprehensive framework,” Sarah explained. “It ensured that we considered every aspect of sustainability, from energy efficiency to water management to the wellbeing of the building’s occupants.”
Achieving a BREEAM Outstanding rating required meticulous planning and a commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of the project. “We had to think outside the box,” Sarah said with a smile. “We explored every possible avenue for sustainability, even when the existing structure’s constraints made it challenging.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project, according to Sarah, was the collaboration between the different teams. “John Robertson Architects, ISG Ltd, and Watkins Payne all brought their expertise to the table,” she said. “It was a true team effort, and that collaboration was pivotal in navigating the complexities of the project.”
As we wrapped up our conversation, Sarah reflected on the journey. “It was a challenging project, but incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The Northcliffe now stands as a testament to what can be achieved when heritage meets sustainability. It’s a flagship for sustainable office spaces, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished.”
The Northcliffe’s journey to BREEAM Outstanding is a remarkable example of how historical preservation and contemporary sustainability can coexist. Through innovative design solutions, meticulous planning, and a commitment to sustainability, the project team overcame significant challenges to create a modern, sustainable office space that honours the building’s rich history.
Marcia Johnson
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