Sciontec’s £56m development sets new standards for sustainable construction in the UK. It has become the first to achieve six global green accreditations. Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of the year and be completed by 2025.
Liverpool’s sustainable building agenda receives a significant boost with the introduction of Hemisphere, an innovative £56m development in the heart of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) Innovation District. This state-of-the-art building has become one of the first in the UK to achieve six prestigious global green accreditations, signaling its commitment to sustainability and environmental excellence.
Hemisphere derives its name from the fascinating duality of the human brain, with the right hemisphere representing creativity and imagination, and the left hemisphere embodying academic and logical thinking. This conceptualization has greatly influenced the design of the building, where each side possesses its own distinct personality, look, and feel, setting them apart from one another.
In addition to offering 120,000 sq ft of flexible Grade A office space, Hemisphere goes beyond traditional office settings. It features a diverse range of collaborative spaces, fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork. Moreover, the building boasts a wellness studio, an innovation lab, a café, and expansive areas of high-quality public realm, creating an enriching and vibrant environment for its occupants.
A New Benchmark in Sustainable Construction
Hemisphere’s commitment to sustainability is unparalleled. The building has been meticulously designed to achieve operational net-zero status, as well as the prestigious Platinum WELL, BREEAM Excellent, EPC Rated A, WiredScore Certified, and NABERS 5.5* ratings. This remarkable feat positions Hemisphere as one of the pioneering new builds in the UK to attain these six coveted global sustainability credentials.
The integration of these cutting-edge green technologies and design principles ensures that Hemisphere not only provides exceptional office spaces but also serves as a sustainability benchmark for future developments. By embracing environmental responsibility, Hemisphere sets a new standard for sustainable construction practices, highlighting the importance of reducing carbon emissions and promoting occupant well-being.
With its innovative design, impressive sustainable features, and commitment to fostering collaboration and well-being, Hemisphere is poised to become a prominent landmark in the vibrant landscape of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool. This development showcases Liverpool’s dedication to creating a sustainable future and reinforces the city’s position as a hub of innovation and forward-thinking.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Sciontec’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond the construction phase. As part of its green leasing strategy, the company has pledged to provide free sustainability guidance to all customers, enabling them to meet their operational energy targets. This initiative aligns with Liverpool City Council’s post-pandemic pledges, which aim to stimulate economic growth, create 800 new jobs, and support 100 apprenticeships during the construction process.
Supporting Liverpool’s Vision
Colin Sinclair, the chief executive of Sciontec and KQ Liverpool, expressed his pride in collaborating with Liverpool City Council and the City Region to develop Paddington Village into an inclusive destination for health, life sciences, tech, and digital innovation. By creating Hemisphere, Sciontec contributes to the vision of harnessing the expertise of world-class universities and attracting nationwide jobs to the thriving Knowledge Quarter.
A Sustainable Ecosystem
Situated next to The Spine, one of the world’s healthiest buildings, Hemisphere will serve as Sciontec’s inaugural new-build development. The project has already attracted interest from potential pre-let tenants, further solidifying its status as a desirable and sustainable workspace. Mayor Steve Rotheram of the Liverpool City Region commended the development, stating that it aligns with the region’s aspirations of promoting innovation, offering high-tech office spaces, and positioning Liverpool at the forefront of UK innovation.
Striking Architecture and Amenities
Hemisphere’s architectural design, conceptualized by AHR Architects, reflects the two sides of the human brain—creative and imaginative on the right, and academic and logical on the left. Spanning eight floors, the building prioritizes cycling commuters with 166 secure cycle spaces and e-bike charging facilities, promoting a sustainable transportation culture. Additional features include a wellness studio, outdoor workspaces, a roof terrace, an innovation lab, and a versatile event space, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Future Milestones
Following the initial announcement in 2021 and with the support of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s investment of £12m from the Single Investment Fund, Sciontec aims to commence construction by the end of 2023, with a target completion date in late 2025. The project’s progress demonstrates the region’s commitment to creating cutting-edge, sustainable infrastructure that drives economic growth and cements Liverpool’s reputation as a center of innovation.
In conclusion, Hemisphere’s achievement of six green accreditations showcases Liverpool’s dedication to sustainable development. As the first UK-designed building to receive such esteemed certifications, Hemisphere serves as a model for future construction projects, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship in creating a greener and more resilient future.
