It is really not a question any more of comparing different types of energy production but, instead, a matter of comparing different portfolios of energy production that are able to produce the energy required with significantly lower carbon emissions, and that can also be implemented quickly enough.
‘We made the building an experience that was unaffected by surroundings…major roads and other buildings that we had privacy issues with onsite.We turned the section of the building, so it’s quite introspective…instead of looking out, or typically out, to the surrounding environment, which is compromised.’ Additionally, he comments that the removal of the ‘domesticity’ of these windows aids with providing the building’s external aesthetic that ‘higher, almost iconic value,’ it manages to achieve.. It’s all part of Circle’s larger focus on personal experience, which Highton also discusses with respect to the patient bedrooms.
These he describes as being ‘of a very good size...not too big… So they’re not cold and very clinical,’ he says, before highlighting that because the patients all have their own individual rooms, ‘there is much more space.’ Each in-patient room also contains a couch able to double up as a bed for guests if they want it overnight.It’s all been well considered, in other words, with practicality and comfort being the priorities..This ongoing sense of space, light and comfort lend themselves to what is undeniably a positive hospital experience for staff, with the feeling manifesting in a variety of ways.. Sharon Matchey, Circle’s Admin Lead, works alongside Adam Chivers on the admin floor and comments on the department’s open plan structure, ‘If you’re having a bad day the team lift you,’ she says.
‘We all keep an eye on each other.’.‘It’s a bit of a team spirit, really,’ confirms Adam.. Paul Highton is located nearby with other key members of the Circle Team, including the Head of Operations and the Hospital Director.
‘What I really like is that there’s no segregation.’ he says.
It allows people to interact with each other… Anybody can come in and just have that conversation with us.’.There’s also a lot more guidance around now, for example, from bodies like the Chartered Institution of Building Service Engineers (CIBSE)..
Sustainable building materials and platform construction.One topic which must be addressed in relation to the reduction of embodied carbon is the sustainable use of building materials.
This is an issue we’re particularly focused on at Bryden Wood, in our work with Platform construction.This transformative kit-of-parts approach enables a reduction in the quantity and weight of building materials.