Building Society Head Office
The Permanent Building in Regent Street, Barnsley; the prestigious Head Office for the Barnsley Building Society has been given a nine month energy efficient makeover and refurbishment while retaining the original 1930’s Art Deco character and features. The building has been given a contemporary feel while enhancing the working conditions for both staff and visitors.
John Goodyear & Company Ltd, were responsible for the overall design and management of the project. John Goodyear explained, “One of the key objectives was to conserve as much energy as possible. We worked closely with an energy consultancy to make the maximum use of natural air.” The ventilation system is thought to be the first of its kind installed in any existing building, using the natural buoyancy of air to rise when heated. By allowing warm stale air to vent out of the top of the building at the same time letting fresh cool air enter at basement level. The process continues 24 hours a day using the night air to cool the building ready for the next day, all controlled by an internet based system. The installation uses no energy, allowing nature to do all the work, hence a zero carbon foot print for cooling.
The computer controlled system is used to manage the modified existing heating installation within the building. The controls adjust the heating output in line with the external temperatures, maintaining a more constant comfort level.
The lighting installation is fully automated; only operating when people are present and natural daylight level has fallen below the design requirement. The output from the lighting equipment is controlled by sensors to maintain the correct level at all times. When staff leave the office at night the lighting system follows them out and closes down the building. The new installation could use as much as 80% less electrical energy than the existing system.
More noticeable to staff and visitors are the changes to the reception, offices and staff areas.
The reception area has been given a contemporary interpretation of Art Deco. American Black Walnut bespoke joinery with chrome trims, chrome pendant lights with opal glass create a soft and diffused light. Waves of colours to the floor carpet complete the modern Art Deco look. The walls to the rear of the counter incorporate high level glass screens, providing views of the original 1930’s stained glass roof lights and marbled walls.
Offices have been given a spacious feel and with the use of pale and neutral tones, the whole atmosphere of this historic building has been enhanced.
