Famous on the outside – world-class on the inside
30 St. Mary Axe
The famous Gherkin skyscraper was officially opened in 2004. It is a spectacular structure, built of steel and glass, 194 metres tall with 40 storeys. It holds more than 48,000 m2 of floor space and is located in the primary financial district of London. The latter mayexplains why the building is mostly used for offices.
This imposing tower was designed by Norman Foster and built by Skanska. It was the first environmentally sustainable skyscraper in London.
The most ingenious and elegant new skyscraper built anywhere in the world for at least 30 yearsWall Street Journal
An extraordinary project with extraordinary requirements
The whole of the imposing structure was created with the aim of being highly energy-efficient. It therefore incorporates a range of solutions which are designed to reduce the building's energy consumption. As an example, six glazed ventilation shafts lead warm air out of the building in the summer, but heat the indoor space in the winter. The shafts also make the rooms feel more comfortable and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
When only the best will do
Swegon was partners in the project to ensure a comfortable indoor climate. We recommended a solution with smaller decentralised air handling units instead of a large plant somewhere in the builing. This, to be able to create an optimal indoor climate in all parts of the building. It also brought reduced costs and greater energy-efficiency.
The smaller Swegon GOLD air handlers were chosen as they had the size to be concealed in the ceilings, that in turn saved costs for special fan rooms. Moreover, the selected units have a very low sound level which allow them to be placed throughout the building where people are working. A decentralised solution also makes it easier to set temperatures, air flows and operating times according to the requirements of current tenants.
London’s greenest landmark at the time
The choice of Swegon’s GOLD air handling units brought economic and environmental payoffs. The building’s total power consumption is approximately 50% less than that of a standard office of a similar size. In addition, the indoor climate of 30 St. Mary Axe provides the highest comfort level for the people inside.
Products
A selection of products used at 30 St. Mary Axe in London, UK
