Going Net Zero Carbon - What Is It and How Does It Apply to Workplace Fit Out?
Alex Kirkup-Lee • March 1, 2022

The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment calls on the building and construction sector to take action to decarbonise the built environment.

As part of the commitment, by 2030:

  • Existing buildings must reduce their energy consumption and eliminate emissions from energy and refrigerants by removing fossil fuel use as fast as possible.
  • New developments and major renovations must be built to be highly efficient, powered by renewables, with a maximum reduction in embodied carbon and compensation of all residual upfront emissions.


This requires a radical transformation in the way buildings are designed, built, occupied and deconstructed. The best way to minimise emissions is in fact to reuse, remodel or retrofit existing buildings, and this will be crucial in order to meet the target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.


Here are some of the ways we are undertaking fit outs to help meet Net Zero Carbon buildings commitment:


Focus on Employee Wellbeing


Working from home has created an increased focus on employee wellbeing in the workplace. In helping offices configure their space for hybrid and agile working, we have transformed workplaces to optimise employee wellbeing, including adding elements such as breakout areas for employees to relax, refresh, think through work activities and hold informal meetings.


By improving the health and wellbeing of occupants, buildings will be longer-lasting and more successful, making them less likely to be demolished. If offices are renovated, renovations are likely to be less intrusive and require less embodied carbon. 

Sustainable Materials

Construction material related emissions account for 28% of total global emissions from buildings and the construction sector. Where possible, we take a reusable design approach which includes using sustainable materials from local companies.


Biophilic Design

Biophilic design

Biophilic design aims to correct the perceived wrongs of the last century or so of architecture, which saw buildings being used to separate us from nature, by incorporating nature and natural elements into a building’s overall design. Biophilic design helps to foster a healthier mindset, control humidity to maintain the optimum levels for human health, absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen to refresh the air. 


Biophilic design is becoming increasingly popular amongst clients, and we have used it in a number of ways such as adding planter units on top of storage, creating a living ‘feature’ wall, covered in real plants or artificial plants, or using plants as dividers between different work areas. 

Improved Office Acoustics

Studies have confirmed that exposure to workplace noise can have a detrimental effect on performance. Acoustic problems and disturbance are caused either by long reverberation times or by noise outside the room. As part of office refurbishment, we assess and optimise the acoustics of buildings. By trying to use sustainable acoustic finishes where possible, we can help clients take a low-carbon approach.

Saving Energy

Most commercial buildings waste an average of 30% of the energy they use. We consider the use of daylight when creating spaces to make them healthy and to improve physical and mental wellbeing. By combining good daylight provision with comprehensive artificial lighting electricity usage, significant energy savings can be made. 


Another way to save energy is to integrate renewables into buildings. This will minimise carbon emissions beyond what can be achieved by efficiency measures alone. The most appropriate form of renewable technology is Solar PV panels, which convert natural light, both indirect and direct, into electrical energy, providing a more environmentally friendly, and economically friendly way to generate electricity.


Get in touch to find out how we can transform your space in an environmentally friendly way.

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