Architects
energy efficient building design
Walker and Martin - Architect submits plans for £27 million fully sustainable 21st Century building to celebrate the centenary of British aviation
Plans for an iconic, energy efficient
building, celebrating the pioneering spirit of the founding
fathers of aviation, are through to the final stages of the Big
Lottery Living Landmarks application. The final submission date
is the 31st May 2007.
The £27 million project, strongly supported by Thames Gateway
authorities and agencies, will make full use of proven
sustainable energy technologies in order to reduce carbon
emissions and use energy responsibly.
Stuart Martin, of award winning architects Walker and Martin, is
leading the impressive 'Flying Start' initiative and has adopted
a comprehensive greening strategy in the construction of the
project which will include wind turbines, solar and geothermal
energy as well as rain water recycling.
The environmental design philosophy of the building and its
engineering services will take full advantage of seasonal
changes in climate and help to reduce reliance on energy
consuming systems and hence drive down consumption and
emissions.
The project will make full use of a local workforce to help
construct and maintain the centre. This will provide much needed
jobs and skills training and along with improved public
transport links will reduce carbon emissions caused by vehicles.
The building will not only tell the story of early British
aviation, but will be a centre of culture and learning, as well
as provide a viewing base for bird enthusiasts across the local
RSPB site. The innovative building, with its form reminiscent of
a delta wing plane taking off, will encompass existing listed
buildings as well as exciting new spaces. The entire site is 22
acres. The building's footprint is approximately 152m x 97m with
a floor area of 10,400 sqm. Starting from ground level the
building will soar to 34m at its highest point.
If successful, the 'Flying Start' project is to be built on the
Isle of Sheppey in North East Kent, the official birthplace of
British aviation and home to the world's first aircraft factory
built in 1909.
Email:
rachel.ringstead@porternovelli.co.uk