White Collar Factory is a 16-storey, 22,000m2 office building topped by a 150 metre rooftop running track and terrace in the heart of London’s ‘Tech City’ district. Arup’s innovative design has played a central role in establishing White Collar Factory as a model for a new type of office building – one that offers building users greater flexibility in the way they occupy and adapt floorplates, more choice over their working environment, and comfortable, productive spaces.
Arup’s work on what became the White Collar Factory concept dates back to 2008, when we joined forces with developer Derwent London and architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris to rethink new-build office design for London’s commercial property market.
The White Collar Factory approach combines the best of the past – particularly, industrial spaces that provided generous volumes - with new technology. The goal was to anticipate as-yet unexpressed needs from London’s office tenants, rather than simply respond to established commercial office design trends. This exploration led us to focus on five principles: high ceilings, a thermal-mass structure, simple passive façade, flexible floorplates and ‘smart’ servicing.
Concrete core cooling
Cooling is provided by a concrete core cooling system, containing chilled water pipes embedded in the concrete slab. This solution enhances the natural effect of the thermal mass to regulate internal temperatures and provide radiant cooling.
High performing structure and façade
The façade offers thermal and solar protection, with the proportion of glazing varying to suit the buildings needs and the sun’s orientation - with more glazing to the north and north east, and less to the west and south. The concrete structure itself is exposed to absorb heat gains from people, lights and computers throughout the day.
Natural ventilation
Windows can be opened throughout the building and a digital traffic light system provides guidance on optimal times to open and close them. These ‘green days’ are prompted by a traffic light system to give users the choice. Booster cooling for very hot days is provided which is also controlled by the occupant rather than pre-set by a central system.