High Sustainability Ratings for School of Management

Based at 1 Canada Square, at the heart of Canary Wharf, UCL’s School of Management has achieved two separate Ska Gold ratings across two separate floors.

Based at 1 Canada Square, at the heart of Canary Wharf, UCL’s School of Management has achieved two separate Ska Gold ratings across two separate floors.

Following its establishment on Level 38 in 2017, the latest refurbishment of Level 50 represents a further expansion of the School.

Working with an experienced design team and contractor helped focus on a number of key priorities set out in the UCL sustainability strategy, ‘Change Possible’. Notably, this included the reuse of construction materials as part of a circular economy approach.

Following a detailed condition survey and pre-refurbishment audit, timber doors were re-used, whilst glazed partitions, blinds, metal ceiling tiles, ironmongery, raised floors, fan coil units and ductwork were evaluated and retained.

Waste was also minimised with over 99% diverted from landfill. 

This demonstrates that careful planning can help maximise the value of construction materials over the long term, with win-wins for sustainability and cost… without compromising on quality.

Significant emphasis was also placed on the health and well-being of the building’s occupants. This included careful attention to acoustics (ensuring excellent sound separation between spaces), as well as maintaining good levels of daylight and air quality. Elements of ‘biophilic’ design were introduced in the form of natural textures and patterns on wall coverings and furniture.

The design team also prioritised inclusive design and consulted with staff to inform their choices of furniture and equipment.

As well as an induction loop and accessible spaces in the lecture theatre, this also included fully wheelchair-accessible kitchen and reception areas, as well as interior design elements which respect neurodiversity.

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