Therefore, we actually simulated in three dimensions, in a virtual environment, how they were going to use their equipment...we were able to position the components within the operating theatre more accurately, so that the efficiency of the operations could be greater than within a typical, general purpose operating theatre.’.
In order to be able to meet these aspirations, it is necessary to develop a clear strategy for both embodied and operational carbon..From LETI: graphic showing the range of performance based on benchmarked projects..
Comparison embodied carbon targets from RIBA, LETI and GLA.Achieving net zero operational and embodied carbon with lean design and modern methods of construction.Bryden Wood’s strategy to achieve net zero carbon building is based on the adoption of a clear hierarchy for operational and embodied carbon..
In order to substantially reduce operational carbon, our designs will adopt the following hierarchy:.Be Lean (passive): minimise the use of energy via passive design measures such as optimised form, orientation and window-to-wall ratio (WWR); design energy efficient facades that incorporate thermal insulation, high airtightness, external shading and solar control glazing; use of natural ventilation and thermal mass and design transitional spaces and low thermal expectation spaces.. Be Lean (active): minimise the use of energy via energy efficient lighting (LED, daylight and presence control sensors) and ventilation systems (demand control ventilation, low SFPs, heat recovery); use technologies such as waste-water heat recovery and specify energy efficient lifts and appliances/equipment.. Be Clean: connect to district heating networks that have plans for decarbonisation; explore plans and feasibility of local hydrogen district networks.. Be Green: use onsite low and zero carbon technologies such as air source heat pumps (ASHP), ground source heat pumps (GSHP), photovoltaic panels, solar collectors for domestic hot water and wind generation among others.. Be Smart: implement innovative technologies such as electric batteries, heat storage, post-occupancy evaluation and develop smart-metering systems..
Offset: any remaining carbon should be offset via Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) or recognised carbon offset schemes.
Offsets used should be publicly disclosed.. An example of specific design strategies that Bryden Wood have adopted follow the proposed operational carbon hierarchy is shown in Figure 5 and is demonstrated with examples below..Beyond its striking glass exterior, lies the building’s central atrium - a sleek, communal space, three stories high and full of light, which houses a reception and cafe, accompanying tables, leather sofas and modern artwork.
It’s an area Orthopaedic Surgeon, Raj Goel jokingly, but admiringly, refers to as ‘the foyer.’ ‘Patients say, “Wow, what a great place to work in,”’ he says..The other Circle staff members seem to agree, united in their appreciation for this particularly special aspect of the hospital.
Maswiken enthuses about the sense of cleanliness one is given, casting a view across the space.Kirsty Cobden, a member of the Business Development Team who often holds events in the atrium, says she thinks the area’s aspirational, calm atmosphere has a direct effect on patients.