Sustainability Report
Embodied carbon
The project’s primary embodied carbon reduction strategy was the preservation and upgrading of the existing building rather than demolition and reconstruction.
Main embodied carbon reduction measures
Existing structure preservation
Retention of the original concrete and steel industrial framework
Avoidance of high-emission new structural materials
Significant reduction in demolition waste
Retention of existing finishes
Existing cracked concrete flooring was preserved across most of the space
Reduced extraction, manufacturing, and transport impacts from replacement materials
Minimal intervention approach
Only essential programmatic insertions were introduced
Reduced material consumption compared to conventional office fit-outs
Lightweight reversible additions
New elements remain visually and physically distinct from the industrial shell
Easier future disassembly and reuse potential
Open-plan design reduced partition construction
Existing spatial qualities were maximized rather than rebuilt
Use of low-impact materials
Natural linoleum flooring from Forbo Flooring Systems
High-durability acoustic systems from Rockfon
Long-life sanitary and electrical systems
Operational Emissions / Energy
The intervention primarily improved environmental performance through passive design and envelope optimization, rather than relying on high-tech mechanical systems.
The operational carbon reduction strategies
Improved natural ventilation
Enlarged facade openings improve cross ventilation
Reduced dependence on mechanical cooling
Increased daylight penetration
Larger openings maximize daylight access
Reduced artificial lighting demand
Improved thermal comfort
Upgraded insulation systems
Reduced heating and cooling loads
Acoustic optimization
Installation of Rockfon acoustic panels
Improved indoor environmental quality and workplace comfort
Reflective interior finishes
White acoustic ceiling surfaces improve light reflectance
Lower lighting energy consumption
Durable systems and finishes
Reduced replacement frequency over the lifecycle
Flexible open-plan layout
Allows long-term operational adaptability
Service and maintenance emissions
The project's primary goal is to reduce long-term maintenance emissions by focusing on durability, simplicity, and reversibility. To achieve this, several strategies have been implemented. Firstly, there is an emphasis on retaining durable existing materials, such as the original concrete floor, which minimizes the need for replacements and extends the lifecycle of the materials in use. A minimal material palette further contributes to this effort by limiting the variety of finishes and systems required, thus reducing maintenance efforts.
The project incorporates long-life products, including durable sanitary fixtures from reputable brands like Roca and GROHE, as well as long-life electrical systems from Gira. Additionally, low-maintenance finishes have been selected, with linoleum flooring chosen for its extended service life and acoustic ceiling systems featuring durable surface finishes to ensure longevity. A flexible open-plan configuration has also been devised, which allows for reduced future demolition during workplace reconfigurations. This adaptability is complemented by reversible interventions, ensuring that new insertions are designed for future removal and adaptation, thereby promoting sustainability and minimizing emissions in the long run.
Afterlife
The project prioritizes adaptive reuse by maintaining the industrial character of the space, enabling it to support various future uses without major structural changes. Key flexibility strategies include an open-plan layout, minimal permanent partitions, a large-span structure, neutral spatial organization, lightweight elements, and reversible construction systems. Potential uses for the space encompass offices, exhibition areas, studios, cultural functions, educational programs, co-working settings, and hospitality/events.
The design incorporates features aimed at future circularity and ease of disassembly. Key elements that are demountable or reusable include acoustic ceiling systems (modular Rockfon panels), open-plan insertions (lightweight meeting rooms), sanitary fixtures (replaceable Roca and GROHE products), and electrical systems (modular Gira systems). The preservation-first strategy emphasizes the continued reuse of the existing structure and flooring, significantly contributing to the circular economy.
Key products in low carbon design
