Launchpad Innovation Hub
- Location
- Southend on Sea, UK
- Client
- Southend on Sea City Council
- Expertise
- Sustainability
- Lighting
- Landscape Architecture
- Building Services Engineering
- Acoustics
- Interior Design
- Architecture
- Completion
- October 2022
- Size
- 3,255 Sqm
A new BREEAM Outstanding innovation centre and landmark building on Southend Airport Business Park. The development encourages new high tech and innovative industry, creating skills for the 21st century.
Driving the growth of cutting-edge high-tech industries and fostering skills for the 21st century. The centre offers flexible spaces tailored to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and inward investors, while also providing open areas for coworking and networking.
The three-story catalyst building, nestled within the Airport Business Park Southend (APBPS), achieves BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A ratings by incorporating passive design and a comprehensive sustainability approach.
Flexibility has been integrated into the building's layout to meet the diverse needs of tenants, with a particular focus on enhancing well-being and promoting collaboration. Abundant natural light floods the interiors, creating a comfortable and inviting ambience. While the building features a sealed facade to reduce noise levels.
The external landscape surrounding the building showcases native trees and meadow planting, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. The incorporation of extensive Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDs) features ensures effective stormwater management, with permeable hard-standing and car parking areas, complemented by an attractive swale located within the central lawn to capture runoff from adjacent paving.
An exhaustive life cycle assessment has guided the design process, minimising the environmental impact of construction materials. Furthermore, meticulous attention has been given to product, system, and material selection at every stage of the project, maintaining alignment with the client's tight cost envelope and fostering their active involvement.