Commissioning is an important part of completing any project but in a critical environment such as a data centre it is even more important that each item is first commissioned and then tested in conjunction with all other systems to prove the interaction in a number of failure modes. This is known as Integrated System Testing (IST). It’s a complex process of predictive response and recording that ensures reliability when it matters most.

DataVita’s new DV2 facility saw Vertiv’s first deployment of Lithium-Ion batteries in Scotland. A lot of consideration went into the specification of both the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and the battery as energy efficiency, space efficiency and safety were paramount. The UPS can operate at 97% efficiency on double conversion or 99% on dynamic online mode. Coupled with the energy efficiency of the battery arrangement, this will significantly reduce the operating efficiently and drive down the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

Addressing concerns surrounding the fire risk associated with Lithium-Ion batteries, the specification called for additional safety measures. A robust battery management system prevents overcharging, deep discharge, and overheating to protect the batteries. Complemented by advanced fire detection and suppression mechanisms, these measures ensure not only the reliability of the facility but also the safety of personnel.

As part of commissioning, we load bank tested the Vertiv UPS – a task that presented unique challenges, especially considering the facility’s basement location.

The successful commissioning of the UPS allowed the facility to then move into full IST.

As the data centre landscape evolves, DataVita’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and safety measures sets a new standard for the industry. At Wallace Whittle, we’re experienced and ready to deliver robust data centre design.

Get in touch with us at [email protected]

Since our management buyout in April 2021, we’ve been very well received and welcomed back by the market, design teams and clients. This reception has empowered us to drive the business post-MBO, as we relentlessly pursue the highest standards of product and service quality. We are also driving standardisation throughout the organisation, a crucial need within our industry and a demand echoed by the market as a whole. We have moved from 88th to 73rd place, with a 54% increase in fee income.

Our Managing Director, Allan McGill, said “Over the past two and a half years, we have not only expanded our order books but have also upgraded three out of our six offices to premium facilities. We successfully launched the initial phases of our Training Academy at all levels, introduced our staff Benefits portal, and much more. These achievements have positioned us for continued growth across various regions, while we simultaneously focus on internal development to elevate our levels of quality and standardisation.”

Read the full article and see the list at Building.co.uk 

In a world where environmental sustainability is at the forefront of our concerns, jmarchitects and Wallace Whittle took a step towards a greener future by co-hosting a Net Zero Carbon (NZC) event, aiming to bring a 360° perspective to the discussion. Held in the Storytelling Centre on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, this event brought together experts, thought leaders, and professionals from various fields to examine the pivotal issue of achieving net zero carbon emissions. 

Our chair, Robin Blacklock, Managing Director at Dowbrae, led a fruitful discussion and pushed our panel with thought-provoking questions, steering the conversation to the challenges and opportunities tied to the Net Zero Carbon journey through lessons learned and current practice.

The panel of speakers included: 

• David Spiteri, Director & Head of Sustainability at Wallace Whittle 

• Steven Anderson, Associate Director, Scottish Futures Trust 

• Daniel Lockwood, Regional Sustainability Lead, AtkinsRéalis 

• Magdalena Blazusiak, Senior Architectural Technologist, jmarchitects 

• Adelle Jess, Senior Architect, jmarchitects 

These experts, each bringing their unique perspectives, shared their insights on what it takes to create truly net zero carbon buildings and we thank them again for their valuable time.  

Achieving net zero carbon emissions in the built environment has become a race against time, demanding a swift response from the construction sector. In light of this challenge, our Head of Sustainability, David Spiteri’s presentation highlighted crucial components of NZC design. It explored design trends and focused on understanding the definition of NZC in buildings. David outlined necessary approaches to achieve this, highlighting key design implications crucial for meeting these targets, sharing valuable lessons learned from past initiatives. 

A truly net zero carbon building must not only reduce its carbon emissions but also be efficient in its energy use. This efficiency is not only an environmental goal but also an economic one, as energy-efficient buildings can significantly lower operating costs over their lifetime. 

Functionality, too, is key. A building must serve its intended purpose effectively while also reducing its carbon footprint. This can include designing spaces that allow for natural lighting and ventilation, implementing energy-efficient HVAC systems, and using sustainable building materials. 

Location plays a vital role as well. A building should be in a location that minimizes its impact on the environment, with access to public transportation and amenities that reduce the need for long commutes and energy consumption. 

The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration and engagement at all levels to create sustainable places. Achieving net zero carbon emissions is a collective effort, requiring cooperation between architects, engineers, developers, policymakers, and the community. 

By working together, we can create sustainable places that not only reduce carbon emissions but also support our communities. Sustainable buildings have the potential to create new opportunities, improve the quality of life for residents, and positively affect the environment directly or indirectly. 

The breakfast seminar was a comprehensive exploration of the concept of achieving net zero carbon emissions. It showcased the commitment of jmarchitects and Wallace Whittle to making a positive impact on our environment. The event highlighted that the road to a sustainable future may be challenging, but with collaboration and innovative solutions, we can make a real difference. 

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our education expertise – [email protected]

Our experience in the Education sector is wide-ranging and long-standing. Working with local Hubs and councils, we have the experience to provide our current and future student generations with the best environments to increase comfort and support new methods of teaching, learning and research. We design to enhance wellness and minimise environmental impact as the world works towards Net Zero Carbon.

In fact, many of our education projects have gone on to be shortlisted and win awards, from Scottish Design Awards to Learning Places Scotland Awards!

WWe have worked on various schools including SEN schools across the UK and Ireland. Including:

• Charlton Park Academy, Greenwhich

• Adrossan Community Campus, Ayr

• Big Creative Academy, Walthamstow

• Harris Academy, Dundee

• Inverurie Community Campus, Aberdeen (SEN)

• Maybole Community Campus, Ayr

And more…

• 3G pitches, multi-use games areas and external play areas

•  Six-lane swimming pools, hydrotherapy pools, warm water pools and sports halls

• Community cafes

• Top-tier energy efficient SFT model targets for core facilities

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our education expertise – [email protected]

With the transition of workspace design to accommodate agile & hybrid working, staff wellbeing, smart technology and steps towards Net Zero Carbon it is important for any new office design to be able to implement these changes.

At Wallace Whittle we have all the skills and experience to design sector leading Grade A commercial office spaces that include all of the above.

Our commercial clients including Barclays, Virgin Money, Morgan Stanley, Royal London, Dublin Airport Central & Scottish Power HQ, have all utilized our expertise when designing their new spaces with Wallace Whittle.

• Comfort and Functionality: via passive design and MEP engineering, including low energy HVAC systems, lighting and electrical installations.

• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Delivering Net Zero Carbon in operation with increasing focus on embodied and whole life carbon, as well as renewable energy, circular economy and ESG.

• Safety & Security: Incorporating systems that ensure occupant and building protection.

• Technology: Providing connectivity to optimise communication, agile working, seamless movement, energy consumption, use of space, air quality and visible sustainability.

• Wellbeing: Designing human-centric spaces where people are stimulated, healthier, happier, and more productive as a result.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our commercial expertise – [email protected]

Our experience in the Healthcare Sector spans over two decades, and is wide-ranging across new facilities as well as regeneration. We have worked on numerous projects to improve healthcare for the future, in some of the biggest facilities including; Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Monklands Replacement Hospital, Peterborough City Hospital, the new Balfour Hospital and more.

• Hospital Design and Engineering: Including HVAC systems, electrical systems, water, drainage, and other essential infrastructure to ensure the efficient functioning of healthcare facilities.

• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Incorporating renewable energy sources including Net Zero Carbon designs, optimising lighting systems, and implementing green building practices to reduce environmental impact.

• Medical Equipment Infrastructure: Designing spaces with the necessary electrical, mechanical, and technical requirements for medical equipment to operate effectively.

• Compliance and Safety: Designing spaces that comply with health and safety regulations to provide a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.

• Infrastructure Upgrades and Renovations: Assessing existing buildings and providing recommendations for renovations and improvements.

• Emergency Preparedness: Designing systems and layouts that facilitate efficient emergency response and evacuation procedures.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our healthcare expertise – [email protected]