SEGRO Plc, the developer and owner of 2 Auriol Drive, embarked on this refurbishment project with a clear vision: to prioritise sustainability, reduce energy consumption, and enhance the health and wellbeing of occupants. The brief demanded a space that would not only meet but exceed current market expectations for sustainable and user-friendly industrial buildings.

One of the main challenges faced during the refurbishment of 2 Auriol Drive was achieving a minimum BREEAM rating of 90%. This required the design and construction teams to meticulously plan and implement various sustainability measures while adhering to a fixed budget. Additionally, the project aimed for an A+ EPC rating and net zero carbon in operation, further complicating the endeavour. As this was a refurbishment project, there were limitations on the influence over existing structures and the types of renewable technologies that could be employed due to the building's size and location in Greenford. Another significant challenge was the reduction of embodied carbon in construction.

SEGRO aimed to demonstrate the potential for embodied carbon savings in refurbishment projects compared to new builds. Despite the constraints of working with an existing building, the project achieved an estimated 81% reduction in embodied carbon compared to a new build. This was accomplished through innovative solutions such as a thorough materials specification process, low zero carbon feasibility studies, and the introduction of SMART building technologies. These strategies not only met the sustainability targets but also ensured that the building was adaptable for future use, maintaining a balance between innovation and practical tenant needs.

The integration of BREEAM requirements from the early design stages ensured that all specified materials had minimal life cycle impact and were responsibly sourced, which was critical to meeting the client’s sustainability goals.

The refurbishment included a comprehensive range of sustainable technologies and practices:

• Renewable energy: Installation of a 275kWp photovoltaic (PV) array and 81kW battery storage system, making the building net zero in operation.
• Biodiversity enhancements: A 200m² living wall, equivalent to planting ten mature trees, and various ecological features such as bird boxes and bug hotels.
• Water conservation: Rainwater harvesting system, saving approximately 64,000 litres of water annually.
• Energy efficiency: High-efficiency HVAC system with heat recovery and leak detection, alongside the removal of gas for an all-electric fit-out.
• Health and wellbeing: New shower, changing, and locker facilities to promote sustainable travel options like cycling, supported by 12 electric vehicle (EV) charging bays.
• Smart monitoring: Intelligent building monitoring systems for water, energy, and indoor air quality to ensure ongoing efficiency and air quality.

The project resulted in significant benefits, aligning with SEGRO's sustainability ambitions. Key achievements include:

• High BREEAM score: An overall score of 90.8%, with outstanding performance in categories like Health & Wellbeing, Energy, Transport, Water, and Materials.
• Operational savings: Substantial reductions in operational costs through energy savings and efficient resource management.
• Occupier attraction: The high-quality, sustainable features attracted premium tenants, securing a long lease and demonstrating the value of BREEAM certification.
• Environmental impact: Achieving a net zero carbon operation and significant embodied carbon savings compared to new builds.