Sustainability has become a hot topic when it comes to the world of offices. Sustainable office design is about creating workplaces that meet today’s needs without compromising the future, with an emphasis on reducing long-term environmental impact.
It goes beyond simply choosing eco-friendly furniture, it’s encompassing initiatives to reduce waste, energy consumption and carbon footprint. True sustainability includes everything from how a building meets industry-leading accreditations, energy-efficient lighting, heating and ventilation systems, to biophilic design which incorporates natural elements like plants and natural light, that promote well-being.
Wellington Place is home to some of the UK’s most sustainable office buildings, including 11 & 12 Wellington Place, which was the first outside London to achieve a NABERS Designed Reviewed Target Rating of Five Stars or above, a gold standard for accessing operational efficiency. Each office is built, designed, and fitted, with sustainability front of mind.
Organisations based at 11 & 12 Wellington Place share how their sustainable office design at Wellington Place benefits them and their teams.
1. It helps attract and retain the best talent
Sustainability credentials have become a top priority for job seekers. According to Hiring Trends Index, 70% of workers in the UK now want to work in a ‘green’ job that values environmental sustainability, with many more inclined to join companies that align with their ethical values.
In today’s competitive market, a sustainable office can be a powerful tool to attract and retain top talent. Tom McWilliams, Head of North East and Yorkshire, agrees: “12 Wellington Place’s unrivalled sustainability credentials underline our commitment to eliminate emissions from our workplaces by 2030 and has formed a key tenet of our plans to attract and retain the region’s leading talent.”
2. It supports the environment
It may sound simple, but the vital impact of sustainable office design on minimising long-term environmental effects and shaping the world we live in should not be underestimated.
Tim West, Office Managing Partner for EY in Leeds, expands: “The move to 12 Wellington Place supports EY’s sustainability goals. The building features roof-mounted solar panels, LED lighting, and energy from a fully renewable energy source, along with secure bike storage, access to showers and changing facilities, and electric bike and car charging points. We are particularly proud that our new home was named as one of the UK’s most sustainable office buildings, according to industry ratings by NABERS UK.”
These elements collectively help reduce environmental impact, contributing to a healthier planet.
3. It supports business sustainability strategies
With more businesses adopting ESG strategies and setting sustainability targets, a sustainable office can be essential for meeting these goals.
This was a key reason behind Lloyds Banking Group’s move to Wellington Place. Tom Willoughby, Workplace Experience Manager at Lloyds Banking Group, explains: “We have five core pillars, and one of the main core pillars is sustainability, so coming to Wellington place, which is a net zero in operation building, was high on the list.”
4. It makes for happier, healthier teams
It’s becoming widely found in studies that working in a sustainable office increases employee satisfaction and wellbeing. One report released at Ecocity World Summit revealed that 93% of those working in an environmentally friendly office feel happier in their jobs, compared to just 55% in less sustainable environments. Meaning your choice of office could impact staff morale.
With features like natural light and clean air, sustainable offices like those at 11 & 12 Wellington Place create healthier, more positive spaces, improving mood and reducing stress and mental fatigue. Esther Venning, Hill Dickinson Partner and Head of Leeds office has seen this first-hand: “Sustainable office design adds up to a space that our people are happy to work in, which in turn makes for increased productivity and a significantly enhanced workplace culture.”
5. It’s a place to be proud of
Sustainable offices not only make employees proud but can also be an important tool to boost company reputation and impress potential and existing clients, or stakeholders.
As Esther from Hill Dickinson says: “We’re incredibly proud to invite clients to visit us here and demonstrate what’s possible in terms of driving energy efficiencies while being in very high quality, contemporary offices.” Businesses that prioritise sustainability and create impressive, well-designed spaces are likely to see a positive impact on their reputation.
Ultimately, sustainable offices pave the way for the future. They enhance business performance, build strong, talented, and happy teams, and, most importantly, help protect the planet for future generations to enjoy.
Find out more about Wellington Place’s sustainable approach here: https://www.wellingtonplace.co.uk/sustainability/
