The Department Store Studios is a highly sustainable development completed in 2021 as a flexible neighbourhood workspace in Brixton. Sustainability was a driving force from inception through to delivery of the building.  

A low carbon development, the building features a prefabricated Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structural frame rather than steel or concrete. Made from renewable wood, it absorbs carbon dioxide and does not require the burning of fossil fuels during production. The structural frame provides in-built soundproofing, fire safety properties and airtightness.

In addition to 48 sqm of photovoltaic panels creating renewable energy on site, there is 120 sqm of green roof comprising a biodiverse and ecologically friendly sedum matt on top of a waterproof membrane. This improves thermal insulation; the plants convert carbon to oxygen through the day and - alongside an attenuation tank - actively manages rain water from reaching the sewers. Efficient water saving equipment and sanitary ware is used throughout the building to reduce waste of mains water.

Energy consumption is minimised by large openable windows throughout The Department Store Studios providing high levels of natural daylight which reduce the need for mains lighting. These windows and access to outdoor spaces allow The Studios to be naturally ventilated instead of relying on artificial cooling. An advanced lighting system ensures that energy is not wasted.

Low and zero carbon technologies ensure the building is highly energy efficient. Insulation keeps heat losses to a minimum thereby reducing demand. A centralised plant system includes air source heat pumps and heat recovery units to further reduce wasted energy.

The building has achieved an ‘Excellent’ rating by BREEAM, the world’s leading sustainability assessment method.

Internally, materials and finishes have been selected for their sustainable production credentials and have a natural palette which draws the outside in. 

In the bar/restaurant, dining tables are topped with responsibly sourced recycled Carrera marble and banquettes are lined with vegan leather. Curtained booths are made of linen, which uses significantly less water and dye than cotton or velvet. Wooden chairs and stools feature in the dining and bar areas, and terracotta pendant lamps hang above the bar.