A functional, flexible building offering workspace and collaborative opportunities for start-ups
PROJECT AIM
To provide an economical but high quality building to support local start-ups by creating a collaborative, supportive working environment.
To create a recognisable, welcoming entrance to form a high-quality ‘front door’ to the development.
To employ a rigorous design approach that creates a sense of delight and promotes a feeling of ownership, as well as providing flexible and adaptable accommodation for the future.
OUR CONCEPT
The building concept is organised around a south to north internal circulation area, or street, with workspaces located to the east and west of this central spine.
Orientation is an important driver of the design from a sustainability perspective, as well as creating a positive relationship to the public realm.
Workshops are located on the west of the spine, where they can link to external yards and servicing access, whilst offices and training rooms are well-placed to the east facing the public
realm with opportunities for good natural daylight and natural ventilation.
THE DESIGN
The spaces are arranged in a rational and repeatable arrangement.
The spaces are adaptable so workshop units can become shared breakout spaces, and office units can become meeting or administration facilities of varying sizes.
The internal 'street' widens towards the entrance to form a social hub for the building. A cafe forms a focus and supports the collaborative shared spaces.
Saw-tooth roof profiles allow natural north light into the workshops. This is ideal for glare-free daylight without solar gain.
High quality landscape enhances the design.
