British Red Cross

Project Overview

Previously based in outdated and temporary portacabin-style premises, the British Red Cross required a new facility that would not only accommodate their regional headquarters but would provide high quality and flexible space, improved access for staff and medical vehicles, as well as a more professional image for the charity’s operations.

The two-storey new build accommodates c.40 staff and up to 700 volunteers, including provision of open plan office space, conference and meeting rooms, facilities for first aid training, a medical loans facility and garage space for the storage and servicing of medical vehicles.

Designed to keep costs to a minimum and reduce future outgoings, the steel framed building features a host of green technologies designed around a passive ventilation approach, which works to reduce energy consumption and ongoing maintenance costs. Visually, the building incorporates a set of cedar-clad pods, which appear ‘plugged’ into the elevations. While providing much needed space for meeting rooms and breakout areas, the pods give the building a sense of identity and aid wayfinding by clearly defining the entrance to the offices.

The result is a purpose-built facility that not only allows the organisation to expand its service offering but provides an improved working environment for staff and volunteers.

• It is such a pleasure to come to work now, not that it wasn’t meaningful and fulfilling before, but the building design and layout has really lifted our spirits.

  Fred Hughes / British Red Cross