GSS led the designs for the refurbishment of what is now the most sustainable office building in Milton Keynes to create a modern and flexible working environment that meets sustainability credentials.

Designed to meet Fitwel and BREEAM standards, the works to Silbury House have improved the energy efficiency of the building through thermal upgrades and the introduction of renewable energy solutions to assist in meeting carbon reduction targets. A forward-thinking brief from the client and an holistic design response has created an inviting internal and external environment which no doubt will provide significant benefits to occupant health and productivity.

Silbury House has an EPC A rating, with only 2% of non-domestic buildings in England and Wales have this rating. The refurbishment also saw the installation of 116 solar panels on the roof underscoring a commitment to renewable energy, providing up to 20% of the building’s energy requirements. Features such as advanced air quality monitors, a new courtyard garden and ergonomic sustainable furniture have created a workspace that promotes employee wellbeing.

Other features include a new ground floor business lounge, modern shower facilities, secure bicycle storage, as well as eight EV charging points. The flooring has been substantially completed through the recovery and reuse of the original floor, and the furniture has also been sourced sustainably and presented in an ultra modern and attractive way.

The city of Milton Keynes is working towards being carbon neutral by 2030 and carbon negative by 2050, creating one of the world’s most sustainable city economies and acting as a model for environmentally conscious growth. From the outset of the project, RO Real Estate has aligned its carbon reduction strategy for Silbury House with the city’s targets.