Commercial project · Design-stage assessment
Reviewing fabric upgrades during an extension and refit.
Barlings KWA used SBEM modelling to help a design team assess proposed improvements to an existing industrial building. The project involved an extension and a new building-services fit-out, alongside upgrades to the retained fabric.
The team needed a quantified comparison of the proposed package and a clear explanation of the information still required for the consequential improvements review.
Our assessment scope
Compare the proposed fabric package.
We reviewed the proposed wall and roof upgrades, improved glazing and external-door performance. The SBEM comparison used consistent working building-services assumptions so the combined effect of the fabric changes could be assessed against the reference case.
We explained the energy and carbon results, how the proposed fabric measures were represented in the model, and the remaining design and cost information needed to progress the review.
Modelled result
Approximately 7% lower regulated energy.
The revised fabric package reduced modelled regulated energy by approximately 7% against the reference case. The comparison gave the design team evidence of the combined effect of the proposed improvements.
This result relates to the SBEM comparison and its assessment assumptions. Regulated building energy was assessed; process energy was excluded.
A defined next step
Understand what was still needed.
The report supported retaining the proposed fabric upgrades within the improvement package. It also identified the final specification and cost evidence needed for the consequential improvements review.
At the stage reported, building-services and lighting information still included working assumptions. The comparison was design advice rather than the final Part L compliance assessment.
Planning a commercial project?
Agree the assessment scope with your design team.
Send William and Kerry your drawings, proposed works and any assessment request from your designer or Building Control. We’ll review the available information and confirm the SBEM reporting scope and quotation.
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