It has the advantage that the capital cost of the shell and fit-out is less than for a traditional office block – even though it uses more land. If and when Vodafone no longer requires it, it can be sold as offices – or easily converted to suit many other uses.
The building has a totally recyclable shell made of steel and mineral wool. Two office halls, each of around 3000 m2, are linked by a central core containing meeting rooms, ancillary accommodation and a large catering kitchen and cafeteria. To one side there is a two-storey area housing management and training facilities.
Daylight-controlled lighting is fitted in the main halls to maximise the use of natural daylight and minimize the use of electric lighting – and stored rainwater is used to flush the toilets. RPS modelled the acoustics, crucially important in large open-plan areas, and was responsible for the external landscaping – with a courtyard and recreation areas that enhance the bold external features of the building. The overall result fully meets Vodafone’s intended vision – that the building is “a centre of excellence for Vodafone staff in Stoke.”
All elements of the building, both the inside and out, have been carefully selected and combined by RPS to produce a cost-effective, uniquely pleasing environment for Vodafone’s staff.
Contact: Alan McBeth
T: + 44 (0) 121 213 5500
E: alan.mcbeth@rpsgroup.com