Big congratulations to the National Youth Theatre, award-winning architects DSDHA and the whole project team involved in enhancing facilities at the NYT to create a National Creative Production House.
We are proud to see the scheme selected for the 2023 Dezeen Awards #SustainableRenovation Longlist, for its progressive strides in transforming the previously unloved building, in terms of visibility, accessibility and long-term sustainability.
In upgrading the National Youth Theatre, the structure of the building has been retained, with the design meeting RIBA and LETI 2030 targets for embodied carbon at 209.47 KgCO2eq/m2. This was achieved by reusing 90% of the existing superstructure and foundations. The exposed surfaces of the existing structure, including the soffit of the theatre space, also help to moderate internal temperature.
New materials were chosen for their low embodied carbon and durability, and to extend the building lifespan. The new entrance pavilion is made of durable green glazed bricks that sit sympathetically to the original brickwork and enhance the setting of mature Norway maple trees.
Annual CO2/m2 emissions are also reduced by 32% from 79.8kgCO2/m2 to 54.4kgCO2/m2 per annum. This was achieved by buffering the front of the existing building with the new insulated pavilion; adding secondary glazing in rehearsal and theatre spaces; switching from gas-fired to electric VRV; and upgrading the efficiency of lighting and services controls.
The scheme is up against a number of other brilliant, sustainable renovation projects, you can read more about the award here: https://lnkd.in/enwAzAKh