UKRI Daresbury
RICHeS Internal Retrofit
The new UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Arts & Humanities office fit-out, nestled within the RICHeS (Research Institute for Cultural Heritage and Environmental Sciences) headquarters, adopts a forward-thinking approach to sustainable and healthy workspaces. Designed by Seven Architects, this project goes beyond conventional office aesthetics, delving deep into the environmental performance and occupant well-being through innovative material choices.
This retrofit uses the Natural Building Systems' internal wall system, featuring a high thermal inertia hemp bio-composite. This is designed to significantly improve Indoor Air Quality and reduce energy consumption by moderating temperature fluctuation. The sound absorption properties of the materials also contribute to the pleasant working environment.
Year
2025
Location
Daresbury, Cheshire
Client
UKRI
Size
183m2 GIA
Covering nearly 200m2 this retrofit project had people and the environment at its heart. Seven Architects' vision for the UKRI Arts & Humanities office was to create a vibrant, collaborative, and health-conscious environment that reflects the innovative spirit of the institution it houses. Their design philosophy is often characterised by an emphasis on natural materials, passive design strategies, and a holistic understanding of a building's impact on both its inhabitants and the broader environment. For the RICHeS headquarters, this meant meticulously considering every element of the fit-out, from spatial layout to the very fabric of the internal walls. The project sought to achieve not just aesthetic appeal but also measurable improvements in comfort, energy efficiency, and a reduced carbon footprint, aligning perfectly with the overarching goals of UKRI and the RICHeS institute itself.
The choice of Natural Building Systems' internal wall system was pivotal in achieving these ambitious objectives. This system utilises a hemp bio-composite, a material that offers a compelling combination of sustainability and performance benefits. Hemp, as a raw material, is inherently sustainable. It grows rapidly, requires minimal water and no pesticides, and sequesters significant amounts of carbon dioxide during its growth. This makes it an excellent choice for reducing the embodied carbon of the construction – a critical consideration in today's climate-conscious building industry, where embodied carbon (classified as Scope 3 emissions) is increasingly recognised as a major contributor to a building's overall environmental impact.
