City architects PCPT is constructing its new headquarters at the Spencer Point development, along with 13 apartments aimed at the environmentally conscious buyer which, it is hoped, will be a benchmark for future city living schemes.
The apartments – which range from one bedroom flats to a penthouse – will include the infrastructure necessary to introduce the very latest energy saving technologies.
As a result, the building will be the first in the city centre to include affordable green engineering and future-proof technology features such as sun pipes to lobbies, heat transfer, stack and wind powered ventilation, rainwater recycling, solar panels and a green roof.
The company is aiming the development at younger, more environmentally conscious people with the aim of creating a thriving ‘community’ at Spencer Point.
Work is expected to be completed in November on the transformation of the former F Marson and Sons jewellery manufacturers at the junction of Spencer Street and Northampton Street.
David Mahony, Architect and Director of PCPT, said: ‘Spencer Point gave us an opportunity to not only create a sophisticated residential unit but also to incorporate some of the latest green technologies.
‘The sort of people who want flats like these are also the ones who have one eye on environmental issues and we would welcome as our neighbours.
’But it’s important to remember that not only does this play its part for the environment, but it also helps to cut energy costs.
‘We’ve had this kind of development in ind for some time but now it is particularly appropriate that we can start to pioneer this sort of development in Birmingham, setting the trend for others to follow.
It is hoped that, once complete, the development will include its own pedestrian square – the Kathleen Dayus Square, in tribute to the Birmingham-born author.