London, UK

Hilson Moran has worked closely with the wider team since the project’s inception to successfully integrate sustainability at the heart of the design process. Our operational and embodied energy analysis directly influenced the design, utilising and reinventing the existing building structure in order to reduce the construction carbon footprint by over 10,200 tonnes of CO2 – equivalent to 3,800 return flights from London to Sydney.

Hilson Moran’s design considered operational energy and introduced intelligently controlled building services, contributing to a reduction in energy consumption of over 60% for the refurbished building. This reduction was achieved despite the addition of three new floors and resultant increase in net internal area to a total of 414,000 sq ft. Our building services team were also able to successfully integrate a highly coordinated interface between the services and structure, despite the complexities of the retained structure.

Our Smart Building consultants developed an intelligent smart platform design with advanced building engagement systems to optimise user experience, wellbeing, productivity, building energy efficiency and facilities management. The building will utilise a digital twin for both user and landlord interfaces, while digitalised wayfinding, Bluetooth sensors and a smartphone app shall ensure occupants have a smooth and efficient journey through the building. The Smart building design is targeting a high SmartScore rating and will be among the first projects in the world accredited by the new scheme.

Key to the project’s sustainability ambitions was an all-electric energy strategy, allowing the project to achieve net zero carbon in operation through the procurement of 100% renewable REGO certified energy. The Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) scheme provides transparency around the proportion of electricity sourced from renewable generation.

Our sustainability team were responsible for assessing the biodiversity impact of the project, and will ensure a net positive biodiversity gain upon completion. As part of this improvement, a planted rooftop garden will create additional space for wildlife, as well as direct access to nature for the building’s tenants, improving wellbeing.

YY London is targeting a BREEAM Outstanding rating, developed and managed by Hilson Moran’s sustainability team. In addition, we are helping to ensure Well Standard enablement in order to achieve a ‘Platinum’ rating in the future.

Completing in December 2022, YY London will reinvigorate a Canary Wharf landmark to create a Smart-enabled, sustainable workplace for the future.