Transformed Title: Space House School of Specification - Adaptive Redevelopment Project
Space House, a Grade II listed building, has undergone a significant transformation, serving as a compelling adaptive reuse case study in sustainable retrofitting. The project demonstrates the successful achievement of high levels of energy efficiency and sustainability in the heart of a historic structure.
Architects and designers can learn from this project by setting clear sustainability targets early on and communicating limitations effectively. This approach helped the team to focus on solutions that maximised views and daylight access, such as the use of circular narrow flow plates, and the replacement of glazing units with high-performance solar control glass.
The project targeted several prestigious certifications, including BREEAM Outstanding, Fitwel Two Stars, NABERS UK 4.5 Stars, and RIBA 2030 targets. A key aspect of the project was the preservation of the majority of the original structure, with approximately 95 per cent of the floor area within the existing building.
However, the project faced challenges due to tight spatial constraints within the listed building. These necessitated compromises in MEP system efficiency, such as increased specific fan power to fit ductwork within existing risers. Restrictions on exterior insulation to preserve the building's historic appearance also presented challenges. Incomplete historical data due to previous upgrades required agile design and construction approaches to ensure accuracy and performance.
Despite these challenges, the team managed to overcome them through close collaboration, focusing on replacing window-like glazed elements instead of exterior insulation, fully electrifying and optimising the heating system to minimise energy losses, and implementing flexible design and construction processes due to incomplete data.
The heating system was fully electrified and optimised to align with sustainability targets, minimising heat loss from the historic fabric. Chilled beams provide radiant cooling, optimising thermal comfort for building occupants. Low-flow fixtures and waterless urinals were implemented to reduce potable water consumption within the building. Drip irrigation with weather monitoring and soil moisture testing minimised irrigation-related water consumption.
The project also boasts more than 500 cycle storage spaces with best-in-class end-of-trip facilities, reflecting a commitment to sustainable transport. Landscape features were introduced to the ground-floor public realm, enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal while promoting biodiversity.
A biodiverse green roof was installed on the Kingsway building, contributing to the project's overall sustainability. The roof was, however, limited in size due to spatial constraints, and rooftop PV installations were restricted due to limited space and overshadowing.
Updating predicted fabric performance regularly as new information becomes available is recommended. Closely monitoring architectural, structural, and MEP coordination is important to maintain performance and meet sustainability targets. Identifying constraints early on and understanding their impact on sustainability measures is crucial.
The Space House project serves as a testament to the successful retrofitting of a Grade II listed building to achieve high levels of energy efficiency and sustainability. The project's approach can provide valuable insights for future adaptive reuse projects, demonstrating that historic buildings can be transformed while preserving their character and contributing to a more sustainable future.
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