Aiming for Passivhaus Plus The proposed learning centre aims to be built to zero carbon standards, both in material construction and ‘in-use’ performance. A central element of the client brief was for the building to be certified Passivhaus and early modelling of the design has confirmed that this will be achieved, even potentially achieving the Passivhaus Plus level. Heating and energy systems currently being considered include air source heat pumps and solar photovoltaic cells. The Centre aims to generate sufficient renewable energy using solar photovoltaic panels to offset the embodied carbon of the building materials. A building carbon assessment is underway and will inform the number of renewables required for the site to pay back the embodied carbon of the structure.
RBG Kew commissioned a masterplan exercise in 2017 to highlight development opportunities and a site hierarchy for future building developments. The new Learning Centre formed a part of that masterplan and highlighted the need for 7 formal teaching spaces for students of all ages, office space for the Kew Learning team, gallery space for exhibits and learning materials and space for learning in external and sheltered external areas. Space to learn The new Learning Centre will replace a redundant building, which is not suitable for refurbishment or adaptive reuse. The Centre aims to be an inspirational space for users of all ages, appeal to a broader range of audience, and be more flexible than the current space. The space comprises
• Learning spaces (x 6) • Toilets (public & staff) • Open plan office • Individual office • Meeting rooms (x 2) • Welfare & kitchen
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