WL Gore office refurbishment extension

The refurbishment and extension of WL Gore’s office facility in Livingston was driven by the need to revitalise an outdated building from the 1980s, creating a modern, sustainable, and energy-efficient office refurbishment. The challenge was not to demolish and rebuild, but to reimagine the existing structure in a way that would meet the evolving needs of the business. 

Key to the success of the project was the client’s focus on three core objectives: Improving the energy performance of the building, creating an inviting and functional environment for staff and visitors, and fostering a more collaborative, flexible workspace. 

These goals were met by reconfiguring the internal layout to promote openness and interaction, as well as introducing modern systems to support both energy efficiency and comfort. The design aimed to not only provide an improved physical environment but also align with WL Gore’s values of sustainability and innovation. The finished result is a modern office refurbishment that supports the company’s operational needs while enhancing the working experience for all employees. 

Sustainability and energy efficiency

Sustainability was at the core of this office refurbishment project, with a focus on reducing energy consumption and improving environmental performance. The decision to retain most of the existing structure significantly minimised material waste and embodied carbon, aligning with best practices in sustainable development. 

Natural light was prioritised through the installation of high-performance glazing and rooflights, reducing the need for artificial lighting and improving solar control. High-performance insulation was installed throughout, ensuring the building achieved a better U-value than required for compliance.

These measures contributed to an overall reduction in operational energy consumption, enhancing both cost efficiency and sustainability credentials. 

By integrating these sustainable solutions, the project not only met but exceeded industry benchmarks for energy performance, creating a modern office space that balances functionality with environmental responsibility. 

Award recognition

The success of this office refurbishment and extension was recognised at the British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards, where it won the refurbished/recycled workplace category and was named 'Best of the Best'. Judges described the transformation as “nothing short of miraculous”, praising the team for delivering an energy-efficient, collaborative, and modern working environment while preserving the integrity of the original structure.