Information
Architect
Cartwright Pickard
Product
SageGlass Classic DGU
Completed
2018
Project Size
350 m²
Photos
© John Kees
Body

The Challenge

Architect Cartwright Pickard and Muse Developments were tasked with creating a new office space for the London borough of Lambeth with energy-efficient, flexible workspaces that provided greater public access to Lambeth Town Hall. The Lambeth Civic Centre, located next to the historic Town Hall, now houses the Customer Centre where Lambeth residents access services, as well as office spaces. The architects wanted to ensure their design helped to create an attractive public destination that instilled citizens and visitors with a sense of civic pride. Additionally, the Lambeth Civic Centre wanted to achieve its sustainability goals, which included achieving BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology) ‘Excellent’ certification.

 

The Solution

After considering a variety of solar control solutions, the architect chose to install approximately 350 m2 of SageGlass dynamic glass in the atrium of the Civic Centre to provide an optimal office environment free from heat gain and glare. Unlike blinds or shades, SageGlass maintains the building’s connection to the outdoors by providing unobstructed views. The addition of dynamic glass also helps dramatically reduce energy demand by decreasing reliance on overhead electrical systems and the need for HVAC.

Due to SageGlass’ ability to tint to adapt to the sun’s rays, the architects knew they would be able to rely on the product to provide year-round indoor comfort while helping the building achieve long-term sustainability savings. SageGlass’ unique appearance also helps the building stand out in order to achieve the design goal of attracting more visitors.

 

The Benefits

According to the International Energy Agency, building and construction together account for 36 percent of global final energy use and 39 percent of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. Through the installation of SageGlass, the Civic Centre will be able to serve as a modern and energy-efficient office environment for Lambeth and the surrounding community. Not only does the addition of SageGlass reduce overall energy loads by an average of 20 percent, it also reduces peak energy demand by up to 26 percent over a building’s life cycle and can help reduce overall building operating costs. These sustainability benefits helped the building achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification by improving its overall rating.

Additionally, through the installation of SageGlass, Lambeth Civic Centre occupants and visitors will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of the outdoors as well as a comfortable indoor environment with optimal daylighting, which research has linked to enhanced employee productivity.

Lambeth Town Hall and Civic Centre has recently won a RIBA London Awards.