Designed by Wernick’s in-house architectural team, the new modular building uses its Swiftplan® system to achieve an EPC rating of ‘A’ and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard
Using the latest in modular building technologies, the building is made up of 28 modules which were constructed at Wernick’s manufacturing facility in South Wales, then transported to site via lorry and installed by the Wickford team.
The modern external design is covered in Trespa external wall cladding plus a very striking timber Brise Soleil. This is complemented by an attractive two-story glass entrance.
The two-storey structure was part of a £3m redevelopment which also included a new modular building for Wernick’s local Buildings and Hire teams, who moved into their new surroundings sited opposite in March 2019.
Design and interior
When you enter the building, you are immediately dazzled by the double-height lobby which has an exposed CLT ceiling and porcelain tiled floor. Here, receptionists can answer and transfer calls on-screen using the new telephone software.
Over the two floors of the building, you can find glass partitioned open-plan office areas, meeting rooms, staff welfare facilities (including a shower) and the new canteen with state-of-the-art catering facilities. Set up for client and staff presentations, the large board room also impresses with its large mahogany table, leather chairs and 85” TV.
The addition of air-con in all the rooms enhances the comfort and productivity of staff – who can adjust settings using a mobile app.
Interior finish is complemented perfectly with brand new furniture which gives a consistent, corporate look whilst creating an inviting work environment for the entire Head Office team.
BREEAM excellence rating
The BREEAM excellence rating was achieved with sustainable additions such as 10kw of photovoltaics (PV) panels on the roof of the building, electric car charging points and aptly some nesting boxes for Swifts (bird).
Modular buildings are not just a temporary solution
Wernick’s chairman, David Wernick commented: ‘‘We believe our Swiftplan® system will help change the perception that modular buildings are a temporary solution.
“The new offices show what can be achieved, and we welcome visitors to come and see this building for themselves.”
Wernick buildings director, Andy King, whose team designed the new offices, said: “Modular ‘offsite’ construction delivers shorter project times and reduces costs when compared to traditional construction methods.
“The fact that much of the work is done ‘offsite’ in a controlled factory environment means the whole building programme is greatly reduced, saving on costs and greatly reducing waste – the percentage of waste recycled and diverted from landfill for this project was 98%!”
