Arts University Bournemouth Academic Building

RCDC acted as sustainability consultants for this new build academic building for Arts University Bournemouth. The scope of work included:

• Agreeing of definitions and strategy with client,

• Undertaking operational and embodied carbon benchmarking and early stage calculations,

• Lifecycle optioneering exercises for different HVAC and structural options,

• Preparation of Energy and Sustainability statement for planning,

• Preparation of Sustainability tender specification outlining contractors targets.

Through our initial work with the client, we had agreed to measure and offset embodied carbon for the building, whilst targeting an Operationally Net Zero Carbon building.

The final design for the building incorporated a hybrid structure which utilised both steel and timber within the primary building. The design was also a naturally ventilated building, with mechanical assistance but not cooling. Significant amounts of analysis and stakeholder engagement took place with the wider client team to agree these strategies, and make sure their implications were understood and accepted. The building received planning approval and is now awaiting construction.