As businesses strive to improve their triple bottom line, the past few years have seen a growing demand for smart building fit-outs. Craig Bennett, CEO at Sigma, explains why this is a sensible move.
The changing nature of work has become the driver for spaces that are increasingly dynamic, scalable, and flexible. Additionally, the impact of businesses on people, profit, and the planet – the so-called triple bottom line – has put the spotlight on fit-outs that make buildings smarter and more sustainable.
The appeal of such spaces makes sense: not only do smart buildings enhance employee wellbeing and productivity, but they reduce operating costs, increase efficiency, and promote sustainability.
While smart fit-outs are a relatively easy task when designing new spaces, existing buildings are a little more challenging as they come with legacy infrastructure, equipment, and systems. However, retrofitting existing buildings is quicker than building new ones and with the right planning, preparation and project partner, legacy properties can easily be transformed into smart buildings.
Smart and sustainable
It’s no secret that buildings require a lot of energy to operate – according to the World Economic Forum, buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy consumption and a third of all greenhouse gas emissions. To support net zero initiatives while minimising the overall impact of operations, buildings are increasingly being designed with sustainability in mind.
In general, smart buildings aim to reduce energy usage and minimise waste without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Fortunately, many of the materials, systems and technologies being developed for use today are intrinsically sustainable.
Smart buildings rely on sophisticated technology, such as sensors and automation systems, to monitor, control, and optimise various operational components. For example, by using automated sensors, optimal air quality and temperature can be monitored in real time, while intelligent lighting systems can be used to create more energy efficient illumination. Smart systems can also be utilised to limit water waste and detect leaks. By keeping tabs on the environment, a smart building can proactively identify inefficiencies and suggest solutions, thereby helping to conserve resources and positively impacting costs through efficiencies and savings.
Smart design focuses on the use of sustainably sourced raw materials and responsible resource consumption. Additionally, with longevity in mind, smart design incorporates elements and materials that will stand the test time, with the prospect of eventually being recycled or reused.
Supporting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
The benefits of smart buildings don’t end with sustainability and reduced operational expenditure. Giving employees control over their working environment boosts happiness and in turn, productivity. As such, smart fitouts are increasingly becoming a central component of CSR initiatives.
With the modern workforce in mind, there is a growing need for bespoke spaces delivered to the highest specifications. As such, there is a shift towards spaces that allow for easy reconfiguration and the ability to accommodate different uses and activities. This includes communal and coworking spaces, individual offices, private cubicles, meeting rooms, brainstorming areas and more. These spaces must be functional, flexible, and dynamic – spaces that can be quickly and easily transformed according to changing needs – with the aim of creating environments that boost productivity and morale.
Additionally, with the realisation that the office environment is a key factor in promoting employee wellbeing and belonging, smart building design is focussed on being more inclusive and supporting diverse needs.
This is evident in the addition of spaces such as prayer rooms, mothering rooms and wellness areas, as well as greater inclusion of high and low stimulus working zones, e.g. areas with sound and light control and the considered use of colours or fabrics, as well as assistive technology such as wheelchair ramps and lifts, and adjustable furniture.
Triple impact
The rising interest in smart buildings is great for people, profit, and the planet – as well as offering a solid return on investment, a healthy, regulated, and bespoke building ensures occupant comfort and productivity while reducing energy costs and carbon emissions.
To make the most of the social, financial and environmental benefits that smart buildings offer, project and facilities managers should partner with a highly experienced fit-out and refurbishment provider. This will not only ensure that smart fit-outs are delivered effectively and sustainably from planning through to completion, but will also simplify procurement, deliver cost efficiencies, and ensure projects are agile and completed at pace.
For more information, visit https://www.sigmagrp.co.uk/
