To reduce operational carbon, we first explore any possibility of reusing buildings that already exist.
According to O’Neill, the biggest challenge of the project was the building of phase 2 over the fully occupied, existing (phase 1) building.He says that whilst knowing the building would be in use by creative industries did give a sense of freedom regarding the design, ‘it was clear that the building needed to deliver value to ensure we created affordable workspaces.’ These, he notes, are still in shortage in West London.
‘It’s stylish yet affordable,’ he says of GWS, ‘and a perfect contrast to the generic, co-working businesses which have established themselves over the past five or so years.’ The ground floor studios are ideal for startups, whilst an upper-story, canal-side unit makes an excellent workspace for an office of 20 plus.. O’Neill loves the diverse collection of creatives and businesses the building has attracted and says he’s ‘glad it has provided GWS and its tenants with a safe, welcoming, happy environment which is conducive to hard, serious and creative business.’ From an architectural perspective, his favourite thing about the building is the gentle curve alongside the canal side elevation.‘Look again at sites/buildings that may not seem the best option,’ he urges developers who may be considering taking on similar projects.‘ And let the architects do their work.’
The process of delivering built assets has become fragmented.As a result, value is diluted at every stage.. Design to Value – a unifying approach.
The most efficient route to the most efficient solution is first to make sure you analyse and understand a project from every angle.
Maximising the value of an asset is finding the right balance of a wide range of criteria.. Design to Value is well understood and applied in the manufacturing industries.‘It’s so motivating to look out and see people grinding away - everyone here works so hard.’ She’s right.
As you walk around the central space there are models clad in towelling robes waiting to shoot Orlebar Brown’s latest swimwear campaign.Then there are the chalked-up notice boards advertising jewellery designer, Daisy’s latest sample sale.
It’s a hive of creative activity.‘You just wouldn’t get this type of inspiration if you were working out of a shed in your garden,’ McLane says, and as if to substantiate her claim, there’s a gruff bark from Wilma, a minuscule, wire-haired dachshund and GWS favourite who has entered the central area.
(Editor: Stackable TVs)