The Future Works Slough, UK

With around 9,300m² of office space, 2 The Future Works will kick-start the vision for the project, setting the architectural language for the development. The building will be characterised by solid aluminium paneled' facades to the east and west that respond to the specific environmental conditions, with these materials also featuring on the north façade between two glazed bays.

The main façade along the Bath Road is predominantly glazed, opening up views towards Windsor Great Park. This façade incorporates aluminium powder-coated brise-soleils, which are carefully positioned to control solar gain whilst optimising views out over the local area and beyond. All elevations have a consistent two-storey bay rhythm, which – with the distinctive angularity of the structures – creates a cohesive family of buildings.

As with all three elements of the development, the street presence of 2 The Future Works is defined by double-height reception and a retail unit that follows the form of the building. The bases of the central and east buildings rise towards each other, framing the ‘gateway’ pedestrian space between the two structures.

All office floors have been designed around single cores to provide efficient, highly flexible spaces benefiting from high levels of natural daylight. The roof of 2 The Future Works will feature a series of roof gardens which will provide amenity space for occupiers.

2 The Future Works received full planning permission in 2008 and has since been amended by Sheppard Robson. 1 The Future Works received outline consent in 2008, with detailed designs still to be progressed for the third element of the development.