Sustainability in the park
Low-impact environmental control of the new pavilion in Reigate’s Priory Park is achieved by a ground-source heating pump, natural ventilation, solar reflecting glazing and a highly insulated roof to reduce solar gain. Steve Macey, building services associate director with Buro Happold, explains, ‘Our aim with the new pavilion was to minimise the impact on the environment. I believe that by the use of natural ventilation and by integrating the ground-source heat pump into the historical landscape setting, we have successfully achieved both an energy-efficient and sustainable solution.’ The building has a glazed facade restricting the use of radiators, so heating is provided to the cafe and welcome areas using underfloor heating in conjunction with the ground-source heat pumps. During summer, passive cooling of the pavilion is achieved by circulating water that has circulated through ‘Slinkies’ in the ground through embedded floor pipes. The effects of solar gain were assess using computer modelling. Mechanical ventilation helps air enter naturally through open doors, and high-level Monodraught Wind Catchers deliver and extract air centrally to the seated and welcome areas.