30 Semple Street

Scotland’s No.1 environmentally accredited office building

Prioritising sustainability and well-being, this ambitious refurbishment revitalises 30 Semple Street to provide exceptional workspace.

And with outstanding green credentials and excellent amenities, the upgrade to premium office space significantly increases its value for our client.

Location Fountainbridge, Edinburgh
Client Corran Properties
Status Complete
Services Architecture, Principal Design
Size 80,000 sqft

Project Background

Demand for grade A offices in Edinburgh’s city centre currently outstrips supply, so MLA were commissioned to maximise 30 Semple Street’s potential. It was originally built in 2001 but the societal shift to high-quality working environments necessitated a fresh approach.

The redevelopment’s aim was to achieve the highest environmental and sustainability accreditations in Scotland whilst creating bright, flexible spaces with great facilities.

The previous building, designed by MLA, was known as Excel House

The design set the precedent for redevelopment along Semple Street

The building neighbours our 2 Semple Street project

Sustainable Approach

Sustainable targets and the promotion of environmentally friendly policies directed the approach to building design and energy efficiency.

Notable achievements: -

1st BREEAM “OUTSTANDING” design-stage accredited office building in Scotland

1st Air Score “PLATINUM” accredited building in Scotland

1st NABERS UK accredited office building in Scotland

Designed to function in accordance with UK Green Building Council net zero carbon buildings framework definition

Building Design

To reduce the environmental impact, much of the existing frame was retained. Reusing the structure and superstructure significantly reduces embodied carbon, minimises construction waste and requirement for new materials. Refurbishment saved 3,300 tonnes of CO₂, more than 50% of the carbon for reconstruction.

Improving the aesthetic and increasing the visual presence of the building, a new fully glazed façade was added. And for flexibility, the layout was reconfigured to provide adaptable, open-plan floorplates that facilitate agile working.

Two fully glazed floors were added to create eight in total, increasing rentable space. A brand-new roof terrace on the top floor provides outdoor space with planting and panoramic views, promoting well-being.

Encouraging healthy lifestyles with active travel, excellent shower, change facilities and bike storage have been added. Electric vehicle charging has also been installed.

New cycle facilities are provided in the basement

Active travel is supported through high quality changing facilities

Cores are based around providing a view at all levels

Energy Efficiency

Outdated, fossil fuel services which had reached the end of their life have all been removed and replaced with efficient electric systems. Renewable energy is generated from roof installed solar panels (Solar Photovoltaic Array).

'Openable' windows are an additional feature. Air quality and temperature are automated so that when windows are opened air-con is automatically switched off, lowering energy consumption.

High quality materials better complement the building's context

The selection of superior materials extends to internal finishes

The building complements more recent adjacent developments

Outcome

Edinburgh and Scotland’s greenest new office is a remarkable redevelopment with cutting edge energy efficient systems and excellent workplace amenities. With a high spec finish and well-being focus, it sets the highest of standards for office space in the Scottish capital.