Fundamental to the upgrade of the 410,000 sq ft, 11-storey 1970s building is a total reconstruction of its HVAC, to achieve compliance or exceeding of current Building Regulations and to create an environment adapted to the changing office needs post-Covid.

To M&E Consultants Ernest Griffiths’ design, contractor Kimpton Energy Solutions Ltd has made effective use of Gilberts’ grilles and diffusers in the reconfiguration.

The current phase involves remodelling of three floors (Level 8, 9 and 0). After stripping out the existing interior, Kimpton has completely replaced the HVAC system throughout, as part of its project contract for all fit-out works..

More than 1350 swirl diffusers have been installed to handle air circulation, providing separate supply via Gilberts GSFC diffusers and extract via Gilberts’ GSXC diffusers. All have been strategically positioned behind perforated grilles in new ceilings across the floor plates to deliver flexible, comfortable working spaces without hot or cold spots for the new tenants- including the Home Office , Crown Commercial Services and Ministry of Justice.

The 900+ Gilberts GSFC square fixed swirl diffusers provide high induction through an omni directional discharge. The fixed swirl provides horizontal discharge of the incoming supply air, enabling high air change rate compared to conventional diffusers. The 350 or so GSXC deliver efficient extraction of used air.

Scott Bennett, Senior Contract Engineer @ Kimpton, commented, “The current buzz phrase of flexible working was proven in the latest phase at Capital Building: to deliver the landlord’s change of plans to reflect new ways of office working post Covid, the whole team had to be flexible in reconfiguring the design. Gilberts provided great support in the choice and supply of diffusers to ensure the new occupants have a comfortable and compliant top-quality working environment for the future.”

Added Ross MacGugan of Ernest Griffiths, “Gilberts’ grilles and diffusers were the most suitable technically and aesthetically for the project. The company’s technical team visited to assist with the design and specification. We know from previous experience, as Gilberts supported us on Phase 1 of The Capital Building, that the company is reliable.”

The Capital Building is one of numerous premium office fit-outs which benefit from Gilberts’ grilles and diffusers, including Birmingham’s tallest office building 103 Colmore Row, Newcastle’s landmark science and technology development The Lumen, the BREEAM excellent-rated 2 new Bailey in Manchester and Charterhouse Square in London.

Gilberts (www.gilbertsblackpool.com)is recognised as the UK’s leading independent air movement specialist, offeringgrilles, louvres, and diffusers for natural, hybrid and mechanical ventilation.Founded 60 years ago and still family-owned and directed, Gilberts Blackpool is unique in its ability to develop components, be it ‘mainstream’ or bespoke- entirely in-house, from initial design through tooling, production, testing and supply, at its 8825m2manufacturing facility. Its state of the art test centre, designed and built in-house, is one of the most technically advanced in the country.