KPW Architects Demonstrate a New Standard in Energy Efficiency
KPW Architects, one of the East Midlands leading architectural practices, have completed one of the most energy efficient retail stores in the country on behalf of Midlands Co-operative Society.
The impressive £4.5 million building replaces the original retail premises that was destroyed by fire in July 2008. It features natural ventilation to the sales floor, maximum use of natural daylighting, and a green living roof planted with local species to create a wildlife habitat. In addition, rainwater is harvested from the roof and used for non-drinking water within the building, solar power heats hot water, and waste heat from refrigeration is reclaimed and used to heat the building.
It is anticipated that the building will achieve a reduction in CO2 emissions from 103kg/m2/year to just 40kg/m2/year.
To reduce the impact of the building upon global warming still further, all of the refrigeration systems use natural refrigerants rather than CFC's and HFC's.
"We are extremely proud to have been involved with the Oakham Co-op project" commented Gareth Share, Director, KPW, "as not only does it exemplify KPW's sustainable design credentials, but it provides a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and energy usage for our client. In addition the shoppers will benefit from an upto date shopping experience in a flagship building".