The Crystal

The Crystal, commissioned by Siemens, is designed to be a showcase of how smart technology can make buildings more sustainable. The 6,300-square-meter structure, which houses exhibition spaces, conference facilities, and a technology and innovation center, was built to meet the highest international sustainability standards for a building (BREEAM Outstanding and LEED Platinum). The Crystal, located near Royal Victoria Dock, includes a meeting center with a 270-seat auditorium, office space, electric car charging stations, and a café.

Sebastien Ricard, Director at Wilkinson Eyre Architects, said on Crystal's opening: “The Crystal is a response to a very unique brief, which involves creating an iconic building to house an international center of excellence for sustainability founded by Siemens. This project offers a fantastic opportunity to explore how new technologies can help create a highly sustainable building without relying solely on 'passive systems' ". The design was designed to maximize the use of natural daylight, with a unique argon-filled window letting in around 70% of visible light but only about 30% of heat. Crystal's Building Energy Management System (BEMS), which regulates all of its electrical and mechanical functions, including its black water recycling, solar thermal hot water, and solar photovoltaic systems, is what makes it smart.

Location: London, UK