Sustainability in workplace design is now a key factor in the design and build process:
As more organisations are prioritising sustainability and re-evaluating the environmental impact of their business processes, ensuring the redesign of their new workspace aligns with their environmental values has become crucial.
Furthermore, incorporating sustainable specifications into the workspace design and build process can have numerous benefits for businesses that collectively contribute to environmental, economic and social well-being.
At GTA we understand the importance of sustainable specification throughout the design and build process and we also recognise the part we play in this. From the very outset we consider factors such as locality and transportation distance, longevity, recycle content and recyclability at the end-of-product life cycle. We consider the potential environmental impacts not only during the construction phase of the project, but throughout the whole life cycle.
“We believe in creating a design that focuses on minimal waste in build and use and effective deconstruction at end of use for a full recyclability approach”.
How do we do this?
Throughout all project stages, sustainability guides our approach and we always strive to specify materials that have been designed to be reused and repurposed after their initial intended use. This ensures that waste is minimised and resources are conserved. Our approach to sustainability influences our workplace furniture selection, material choices, manufacturing processes, and even the impact of delivery logistics on the environment. We prioritise responsible practices at every point, always considering the full product lifecycle.
When it comes to office furniture, wherever viable, our in-house design and furniture team thoughtfully considers the re-use and re-purpose of existing office desk and seating, shelving and storage, and any other current elements of the built space.
We plot our drawings to clearly define what furniture and fixtures and fittings are new and existing. Over the course of the project, we will also consider various additional sustainable solutions whilst ensuring any decisions remain in line with our clients’ expectations.
How can you implement design measures that support a sustainable project life cycle?
Accreditations enable companies to meet the increasing demand for sustainable buildings and interiors and these schemes provide frameworks and standards to support the delivery of sustainable buildings and interiors. While the majority are voluntary, many authorities incorporate key schemes into their planning criteria. The accreditation process and focus areas vary from scheme to scheme. Some programmes are concerned with energy efficiency, while others might focus on indoor environmental quality (IEG) or building provisions for health, safety and wellbeing.
Our team is on hand to help you learn more about the types of sustainability accreditations your project could achieve and what the benefits would be in implementing them. Our next article (coming soon!) will take a deeper dive into the most recognisable sustainable schemes and explain these in more detail.
So what exactly are the benefits of sustainable specification on a project?
Here are some of the key advantages:
Environmental Impact
Tax Incentives: Sustainable specifications often focus on energy-efficient systems and equipment, reducing overall energy consumption.
Resource Conservation: Using sustainable materials and practices helps minimise resource depletion and promotes responsible use of materials.
Waste Reduction: Sustainable practices often involve minimizing construction and operational waste, contributing to a reduction in overall environmental impact.
Cost Savings
Overall Project Savings: Through the reuse and recycling of existing materials, project specification and build costs can be considerably reduced.
Operational Savings: Energy-efficient technologies and practices can lead to reduced utility bills and operating costs over the long term.
Tax Incentives: Many governments provide tax incentives and rebates for incorporating sustainable elements into building projects, offering potential financial benefits.
Health and Wellbeing
Indoor Air Quality: Sustainable specifications may prioritize materials and systems that enhance indoor air quality, contributing to the well-being and productivity of occupants.
Biophilic Design: Integrating natural elements into the workplace, such as natural light and greenery, can improve mental health and creativity.
Innovation and Collaboration
Encouraging Innovation: Sustainable specifications often drive innovation in design and construction practices, fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving.
Collaboration: Sustainable projects often involve collaboration among various stakeholders, fostering teamwork and partnerships within the industry.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Future-roofing: Sustainable designs often consider future needs and trends, making spaces more adaptable to changes in technology, workforce, and industry requirements.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Positive Image: Embracing sustainable practices reflects positively on a company's image and commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
Employee Engagement: Employees often appreciate working in environmentally friendly and socially responsible environments, contributing to higher job satisfaction and retention.
Regulatory Compliance
Meeting Standards: Sustainable specifications help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and building codes, reducing the risk of legal issues.
Market Competitiveness
Attracting Clients and Tenants: Businesses and tenants increasingly seek sustainable spaces, making properties with green features more attractive and competitive in the market.
Incorporating sustainable specifications in your workspace design not only aligns with the increasing importance placed on corporate sustainability and responsibility, but it also has a positive impact on many areas of the business. Our team is dedicated to finding new and innovative ways to ensure sustainability is at the very heart of our projects. We believe in creating spaces that not only benefit businesses, but also minimises environmental impact.
For more information on creating sustainable spaces that meet all your business needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
