Through a small number of new parts, the building has a whole new lifespan, limiting its embodied carbon when compared with the alternative of a new build.. Building less volume reduces costs, embodied carbon and operational carbon.
Bryden Wood’s approach to adaptive reuse uses a clear operational and embodied carbon hierarchy, as shown in the diagrams below.Our sustainable design approach prioritises the reduction of energy demand via a ‘fabric first’ approach, combined with passive and active design measures (‘be lean’).
To reduce operational carbon, we first explore any possibility of reusing buildings that already exist.‘build nothing’) as the main route to reducing embodied carbon.Further, all our projects are based on ‘lean design’ with the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) where feasible (‘build less’).. Reusing buildings can produce a substantial saving in embodied carbon, but the quantum depends on the extent of the refurbishment.
On the other hand, a reduced scope of refurbishment, which does not include a façade and HVAC systems upgrade, can mean that operational carbon emissions are high due to the inefficient performance of the building..Analysis of different refurbishment options: from retrofit to new construction.
The question is: which is the correct level of refurbishment to ensure that the embodied carbon benefit outweighs the reduced operational carbon performance?
Light refurbishment, retaining as much of the building as possible?I feel really happy coming here.
It’s a place that is conducive to creating great architecture.’.Khalifa agrees, ‘having a space has made a huge difference.
The open nature of the building really helps me.I like walking around to see what the other studios are putting up on their walls.