Group A: Ben Lyons (BPTW LLP), Andrew McClements (AHMM), Amy Cureton (Hampshire County Council), Aidan Sinclair (Atkins).
The project endeavours to repurpose Block C situated on Castle Meadow Campus into a cutting-edge Business Hub for the University. It centres its efforts on optimising energy efficiency and adhering to contemporary building standards through innovative facade design. The overarching goal is to implement the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Restore, thereby addressing existing challenges while simultaneously aligning with key UN Sustainable Development Goals, notably Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11) and Good Health and Well-being (Goal 3). This strategic approach to retrofitting emphasises the reduction of carbon emissions and resource consumption, in harmony with the comprehensive sustainability framework outlined in the 2019 RIBA Sustainable Outcomes.
At the onset of the project, a thorough analysis is conducted to assess the current state of the facade, evaluating its construction and condition to identify areas requiring improvement to meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. This analysis serves as the foundation for exploring three distinct facade study options, each tailored to enhance fabric performance and minimise air leakage. These options encompass the implementation of a building management system for precise temperature control, internal insulation solutions, and the installation of an air barrier system.
Central to the proposed facade design is the enhancement of the existing envelope structure to achieve optimal regulation of heat, moisture, and airflow, while carefully preserving the exterior aesthetic of the building. Introducing the dynamic buffer zone (DBZ) concept represents a groundbreaking innovation aimed at refining air movement accuracy within a 600mm airspace between indoor and outdoor environments. This strategic upgrade strategy includes the installation of triple-glazed units featuring composite frames, effectively bolstering thermal performance and acoustics. Furthermore, insulation strategies entail the application of PU expanding foam and Aerogel Plaster, effectively mitigating thermal bridging and augmenting airtightness and waterproofing capabilities.
Addressing the thermal performance of the roof presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. The recommendation involves replacing the existing insulation material with Kingspan Kooltherm, a phenolic insulation solution known for its superior thermal properties, thereby improving the overall U-Value while preserving the integrity of the original materials. Additionally, the proposal advocates for the integration of phase-change materials to enhance thermal mass and provide effective acoustic treatment, countering the effects of metal structures present within the roof assembly.
In summation, the project's overarching objective is to achieve a harmonious balance between energy conservation, occupant comfort, and environmental sustainability through the thoughtful implementation of retrofitting strategies. By leveraging innovative design solutions and adhering to the principles of sustainable development, the envisioned Business Hub for the University promises to serve as a beacon of progress and environmental stewardship within the community.
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