CPMG ARCHITECTS
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Staff well-being was incorporated into the office design through
controlled natural light with outside views from every desk,
windows that can easily be opened and a displacement ventilation
system that provides access to fresh air.
Fitness classes are run in a large conference room and well
landscaped external spaces were designed for employees to gain
access to fresh air and daylight.
The focus on employees and their health and well-being led the
design of every aspect of the building. Specific initiatives included:
• Covered cycle parking
• Generous and high-quality shower and changing facilities
• A large multi-purpose room with a timber sprung floor,
christened the “Zumba room”. This room has direct access
via large sliding doors to a discrete but sizeable external space
suitable for various exercise related activities.
• Taking biophilia into account the building is slightly raised and
protected from behind by an existing tree belt. The upper floors
enjoy excellent long views including the lake to the east.
• The site has good access to recreational walks around the lake
• The existing landscape belt has been reinforced with additional
planting and external areas for socialising and outdoor working.
These are accessed via the café and sheltered by the trees. A
slightly raised level to this area helps to further protect it and make
it feel secure.
When British Sugar embarked on designing and building a new
office, the underlying principle was that it had to be the complete
opposite of its former office environment. This building did not
set out to be different, but it became apparent that the client was
prepared to think differently and invest in the design concept.
Consequently, the building is different and has the capacity to
delight and surprise.
The client is thrilled and views the project as having been truly
transformational, not just as a property, but in terms of its effect
on the businesses that work there.
For more information visit: www.cpmg-architects.com.
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