ROYAL DOCKS CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

BPR were commissioned to look at the deep-refurbishment of an existing building for the University of East London. The project involves removing the tired arrangement of underutilised, cellular offices and repurposing as an innovation hub with open and collaborative co-working spaces.

Underpinning the emerging design proposals is a truly sustainable design ethos; a tripartite approach has been employed whereby new materials and products are either recycled, upcycled or found on site.

Biophilic design principles have also been utilised, to help improve the wellbeing of those using the facility. New walls are to be clad with plant or moss, and natural materials specified. A language of slatted-wood cladding permeates throughout the space adding surprise and delight to vertical surfaces whilst creating a framework within which students and staff can curate the space.

The RDCS is now an inclusive co-creation and collaboration hub for students, businesses and communities of East London focusing on nurturing sustainable innovation and practices.
The Centre is a gateway between the academia, industry, and local community, providing a mixture of highly flexible open-coworking, research, prototyping, event, and training spaces.