Rare is an Xbox Games Studio on a mission to create the kind of games the world doesn’t have. A recent expansion of the Microsoft subsidiary’s development division presented a clean slate opportunity to create an ultra-sustainable rural outpost with true green credentials.
In 2020, Microsoft decided to develop a new office facility at Rare’s existing Twycross campus in Leicestershire, UK, responding to the challenge, “what might the gaming studio of the future look like?”
Commissioning a state-of-the-art new game development space a time when the future of work seemed totally unpredictable was a bold move.
But Rare and the Microsoft real estate team shared a strategic vision to create an inspiring, comfortable, and adaptable space with the wellbeing of team members, as well as the planet, at its heart.
Thinking strategically
RKD has a long track record of working with Microsoft that includes specialist sustainability consulting to help the global tech giant reduce the carbon footprint of its global commercial real estate portfolio.
Microsoft selected RKD from its EMEA sustainability panel to strategically advise on the development of the new 1,200 sq. office facility, known as Barn X.
A dynamic team was formed to deliver the project, including London architecture firm LOM, Atelier Ten (MEP), Seven (Project Managers), and 3 Sphere (Cost Consultants).
RKD provided strategic advice, guiding the client and project team during the development and implementation of a site-specific solution aligned with Microsoft’s corporate sustainability strategy.
Setting the standard
As a ground-up new build facility, Barn X had to achieve the highest standards possible. RKD adapted proven sustainability processes to follow a mandated Global Workplace (GWS) sustainability specification with specific targets across categories such as Energy, Water, Materials, Waste, and Indoor Quality, as well as a LEED v4 prerequisite and credit requirements.
Our team worked within an ambitious scope, mandated by Microsoft’s commitment to environmental sustainability, that included the achievement of LEED GOLD certification as well as sustainable design solutions that met bespoke standards as a minimum:
- LED lighting and occupancy controls.
- Maximum lighting density per square metre.
- Energy efficient appliances.
- Fully commissioned and metred MEP systems and sub systems.
- Low flow/flush fixtures supplemented with reclaimed water.
- All fixtures, furniture, and wet products to have the highest standards of 3rd party verification as healthy sustainably sourced products.
- Mold and Moisture Management Systems in operation.
- Filtration on outdoor handling units drawing air into the building reducing contaminants in indoor spaces.
- Active workstations.
- Biophilic elements throughout.
Adapt and thrive
Collaboration is vital for the successful implementation of good sustainable design. But when the Barn X project team came together towards the end of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had radically changed the ways of work and communication.
RKD facilitated collaboration by hosting regular remote sustainability workshops. We undertook comprehensive preparation in advance of each session, ensuring the best information was presented to drive timely decision making that kept the detailed design period on schedule.
By adapting our approach to foster closer collaboration, we were able to identify and realise opportunities that maximised the project’s sustainable design potential.
- Predicted annual energy consumption for the building was balanced with on-site renewable energy solutions on lands identified by the client.
- Bespoke inputs to commission systems ensured operational excellence at the end of the construction period when handed over to the local facilities team.
- Materiality assessments and verification were integrated as part of the technical submittal / procurement process.
- The embodied carbon spend of the development was actively managed (and reductions achieved) by optioneering prioritised in order of performance, maintenance, carbon, and project cost.
- Expert advice was given to the general contractor on site environmental controls and waste management during the construction period.
A building for people, as well as the planet
To reduce the embodied carbon impact of the development, extensive use was made of natural or bio-based materials such as timber cladding, mass timber structure, clay brick and the use of open, exposed ceilings.
Created with neurodiversity in mind, the internal spaces are people-centric and flexible, enabling Rare to adapt to future work practices and drive creativity in games development.
The connection to nature allows the building to ‘bring the outside in’. Biophilic elements create drama in the internal spaces, while views out to nature in its natural setting reinforce the connection and stimulate creativity.
The external timber cladding solution—New Zealand Accoya—will last for 60 years without the need for varnish or paint finishing coat, while the inner timber structure was locally sourced.
Sustainability is good news for all
As a physical manifestation of the gaming studio of the future, Barn X has been widely recognised a model green workplace. The project’s remarkable story is covered from different angles across media:
Arkaden: Barn X Interview with Rare CEO Craig Duncan and RKD’s Sean Hogan
LOM: Barn X – A net-zero gaming development studio set in the English countryside
Wallpaper*: A new office for Xbox game developer Rare is low in carbon and high in style