Building a BREEAM-Outstanding Office

Summary

This article provides a step-by-step guide to achieving BREEAM certification, inspired by Bloomberg’s European Headquarters in London. It explores key sustainable strategies, including water conservation, energy efficiency, and natural ventilation. By following these tips, developers can create environmentally friendly and high-performing buildings.

Discover how Focus360 Energy can help with BREEAM certification.

** Main Story**

Aiming for a BREEAM Outstanding rating, like Bloomberg’s impressive European Headquarters? It’s definitely achievable, but it demands a truly holistic approach to sustainable design and construction. I thought I’d share some of the key strategies Bloomberg used; these are actionable steps that could really help if you’re aiming for BREEAM certification yourself. By prioritizing things like water conservation, energy efficiency, and, of course, natural ventilation, developers can craft buildings that are not only environmentally responsible but also remarkably efficient.

Understanding BREEAM

But before we dive in, what exactly is BREEAM? Well, BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is essentially the gold standard globally for assessing sustainability in master planning, infrastructure, and building projects. It’s not just a checklist; it sets the bar for best practices in sustainable building design, construction, and operation, and it’s become one of the most respected ways to measure a building’s environmental impact. Think of it as a comprehensive report card for your building’s ecological footprint.

A BREEAM assessment really drills down, evaluating a building’s environmental performance across a bunch of critical areas. We’re talking energy and water usage, of course, but also health and well-being, pollution levels, transport links, the materials used, waste management practices, the impact on local ecology, and even the overall management processes. Depending on the final score you get, buildings are certified on a scale. You’ve got Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and, of course, the coveted Outstanding. So, the higher you aim, the better.

Steps to Achieving BREEAM Certification

Okay, so, how do you get there? Let’s break it down.

Prioritize Water Conservation

Bloomberg’s European Headquarters? It’s a fantastic example of water efficiency, using a whopping 73% less water than a typical office building. To get similar results, consider these strategies:

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Think about capturing rainwater from the roof and other surfaces, then reusing it for non-potable things like flushing toilets and irrigation. Makes sense, right?

2. Greywater Recycling: Treat wastewater from sinks, showers – the whole shebang – and recycle it for toilet flushing and irrigation. It’s a clever way to conserve a lot of water.

3. Low-Flow Fixtures: Invest in water-efficient toilets, faucets, and showerheads. Those little changes can really add up over time.

4. Water-Efficient Landscaping: Choose plants that don’t need a ton of water (drought-tolerant), and implement efficient irrigation systems to keep outdoor water consumption down. Nobody wants to waste water on a thirsty lawn.

Maximize Energy Efficiency

Now, let’s talk energy. Bloomberg’s HQ manages to slash energy consumption by 35% compared to a standard office building. Pretty impressive! How did they do it? Here’s the lowdown:

1. Smart Lighting Systems: Go for LED lighting with intelligent controls – occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting… the works! These systems ensure you’re only using light when and where you need it.

2. Optimized HVAC Systems: Invest in high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, equipped with smart controls that regulate temperature and airflow based on occupancy. No need to heat or cool empty rooms!

3. Building Management Systems (BMS): Integrate all your building systems – lighting, HVAC, security – into a central control system. This allows you to monitor and tweak energy performance from one central hub.

4. Renewable Energy Sources: Seriously consider tapping into renewable energy sources, like solar panels or wind turbines, to generate power right on site. It can make a huge difference.

I remember working on a smaller office project a few years back; we initially dismissed solar panels as too expensive. But when we ran the numbers over the long term, factoring in energy savings and potential government incentives, it was a no-brainer.

Utilize Natural Ventilation

Did you know Bloomberg’s building uses a “breathing façade” with bronze fins? It’s not just for show; it provides natural ventilation, cutting down significantly on the need for air con. Check these out:

1. Passive Design Strategies: Think about the building’s orientation and where you put your windows to really leverage natural ventilation.

2. Operable Windows: Incorporate windows and vents that can be opened, allowing for natural airflow throughout the building.

3. Automated Control Systems: Install sensors and automated controls to adjust window openings and vents based on weather conditions and how many people are in the building. Smart tech for smart ventilation.

4. Mixed-Mode Ventilation: Combine both natural and mechanical ventilation systems to get the best of both worlds – good air quality and energy efficiency.

It’s all about creating an environment that feels healthy and comfortable.

Material Selection

And then there’s the materials themselves. Choose sustainable materials with a low environmental impact to minimize the building’s footprint.

1. Recycled Content: Prioritize building materials that incorporate a high percentage of recycled content. It’s a great way to reduce resource depletion and minimize waste.

2. Locally Sourced Materials: Use materials sourced locally whenever you can. This cuts down on transportation emissions, which is a major win, and it supports local businesses too.

3. Sustainable Timber: If you’re using timber, make sure it’s certified sustainable from responsibly managed forests.

4. Low-VOC Materials: Select materials that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Trust me; this will improve indoor air quality, and that’s crucial for the health and well-being of the occupants.

Waste Management

Finally, don’t forget about waste management; it’s a key component of BREEAM certification.

1. Construction Waste Recycling: Create a construction waste management plan to make sure as much waste as possible is diverted from landfills. Recycling and reuse are the names of the game.

2. Operational Waste Management: Once the building is up and running, have separate waste collection systems for different materials – paper, plastic, glass, organic waste, the whole shebang. This makes recycling and composting much easier.

Beyond the Basics

Of course, the above steps are just a foundation. If you really want to push for that Outstanding rating, you need to go the extra mile. Here are a few more ideas:

• Indoor Air Quality Monitoring: Keep a close eye on indoor air quality to ensure a healthy and pleasant environment for everyone inside.

• Green Roofs and Walls: Green roofs and walls aren’t just pretty; they can improve insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and boost biodiversity. It’s a win-win-win!

• Smart Water Management: Implement smart water management systems that keep tabs on water usage in real-time and alert you to any leaks or inefficiencies.

So, by following these guidelines and embracing sustainable strategies, developers can design buildings that not only minimize their impact on the planet but also create healthier, more productive spaces for people. Remember, obtaining a BREEAM rating is a process that requires careful planning and execution, and it’s crucial to partner with accredited BREEAM assessors along the way to make sure you meet all the requirements and maximize your score. Also, this information is current as of today, May 19, 2025, and regulations or best practices regarding BREEAM may change. Good luck!