The University and design team were committed to developing a sustainable environmental
strategy for the project. The un-insulated concrete tiled roof was replaced with Welsh slate
and insulated to higher than Building Regulation levels. Rainwater is harvested and used to
flush toilets. A key objective has been to keep the technology as simple as possible. Rooflights,
controlled by rain sensors, have been introduced to provide natural light and ventilation, both
minimising the consumption of energy and creating a natural and well tempered environment.

During theatre performances, when rooflights would allow external noises to infiltrate and the
sounds of the production could disturb neighbours, a simple mechanical extract system
with sound attenuators located in the roof void removes exhaust air from the theatre.
Fresh air is tempered by being drawn through the plant room and introduced into the theatre
via floor ducts and grilles. Natural light is used wherever possible. At each end of the foyer a slot
extends up through the studio to rooflights, which allow sunlight and natural ventilation into the
otherwise enclosed space. Acoustic considerations in the theatre control room mean that this
requires mechanical ventilation but heat recovery units minimise the heat loss.

Dimmable lights, local switches and movement sensors balance good user control with reduced
energy consumption. The heating system has high efficiency weather compensated
condensing boilers with variable flow rates and temperatures to minimise
carbon dioxide emissions whilst maximising the comfort of occupants

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