Phase 2 of ECE’s regeneration of Chichester College Group’s Central Brighton Campus masterplan has been completed. The transformation of Pelham Tower, through modern over-cladding, has refreshed the building’s appearance and significantly enhanced the tower’s environmental and thermal performance, ensuring a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for the campus.
The tower was originally completed in the 1970s with the envelope largely unchanged, resulting in poor thermal performance and airtightness. This has resulted in elevated heating costs in winter and overheating conditions in the summer.
Retaining the sub- and superstructure has saved 2,650 tonnes of carbon, reducing the total embodied carbon emissions by the equivalent of heating 980 homes for 1 year. Fabric-first upgrades and the use of heat pumps have saved 41% in space heating and reduced gas consumption by 33%. The overall safety of the building was improved with the installation of fire barriers into the façade.
The design wraps the cladding from the south elevation to a third of the length on the east and west facades. The cladding elevates the tower to a more slender and elegant appearance. The design incorporates replacement roofing, insulation, and improved glazing with solar control blinds.
A visual portal has been introduced to the high point of the south face of the tower. Illuminated at night, it references the historic churches surrounding the college, particularly St. Bartholomew’s Church. Signage is located on the east and west elevations to ensure the best visibility for the college, facing the direction of students, staff, and visitors as they arrive at the campus.
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