Enhancing the Office Environment: S&C Slatter’s Transformation of Winnersh Triangle Business Park

Reading’s Winnersh Triangle Business Park is a pioneer in the future of office spaces, emphasising sustainability, work-life balance and prioritising the well-being of its employees and employers.

In today’s fast-paced business world, the significance of employee well-being has become increasingly apparent. Business park owners are now recognising the importance of creating workspaces that promote the physical, mental, and emotional health of both employees and employers.

The developer’s goal was to create a peaceful and comfortable environment. They turned to S&C Slatter, a trusted partner who had previously delivered the Wellness Hub with a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

In 2022, S&C Slatter was thrilled to partner on a project that saw the construction of a sports hub with a Gen2 multi-use pitch, yoga studio, urban gardens, and a living wall. This time, the task was to upgrade the 30-year-old external spaces surrounding the modern glass-fronted building that sits above an underground car park.

Project Challenges

The most significant challenge was to create a stunning landscape without compromising the structural integrity of the building or car park below, with the S&C Slatter team needing to consider the weight and pressure that would be exerted on the structure.

Additionally, a non-permeable membrane protected the car park roof, demanding careful construction to avoid any damage. The limited depth of the topsoil, ranging from 250mm to 300mm, required expert handling due to an incredibly narrow margin for error.

Moreover, the site’s proximity to live working buildings with glass facias added complexity, requiring cautious operations to prevent any potential damage. Network and power cables throughout the site further added to the construction challenges. Finally, the existing 30-year-old irrigation system was insufficient and needed complete replacement.

Solutions

To overcome the weight limit challenges and protect the car park’s integrity, S&C Slatter employed innovative and lightweight solutions:

• Lightweight Materials: By incorporating fibreglass planters, pergolas, LED lighting, and modified soil, the load on the podium roof was reduced while maintaining an appealing aesthetic.

• Resin Bound Pathways: Lightweight, resin-bound pathways were used, ensuring a high standard finish and reduced load on the podium.

• Light Machinery: S&C Slatter utilised the lightest machinery available to minimise the impact on the structure.

• Upgraded Irrigation: The team installed an entirely new and improved irrigation system before commencing with soft landscaping.

The site’s proximity to live working buildings with glass facias added complexity, requiring cautious operations to prevent any potential damage. Network and power cables throughout the site further added to the construction challenges. Finally, the existing 30-year-old irrigation system was insufficient and needed complete replacement.

Results

The project was a resounding success, transforming Winnersh Triangle Business Park’s 30-year-old external expanse into a calm and peaceful oasis.

The stylish lighting accents enhanced the peaceful surroundings around the prestigious glass-fronted building. A high-quality, premium finish extended from the building into the surrounding areas, making the business park a welcoming space for employees.

S&C Slatter find solutions to challenges without compromising the aesthetic, creating modern, sustainable and peaceful office environments that prioritise well-being.

Discover how we can transform your space

Call 01635 34521 or Email enquiries@slattersportsconstruction.com to talk to our Experts.