NVR #3

On approach to the ECCI building I found myself immediately impressed with the traditional
stone façade matching Edinburgh’s aesthetic. I walked to the site, however there is plenty of
space for bike storage and bus stops not far away. On entry into the site which has full
disabled access, there is immediate spacious outdoor areas for congregation and benches
for seating supplemented by trees and vegetation. During my visit a group of young teens
were in fact using the space for socialising, proving the inviting nature of the courtyard.

The weather during my visit was very overcast, however this did not inhibit the use of the
outdoor areas. Round the back of the building there is a semi-circular bench which is an
inviting place to have social gatherings between work sessions. On the other hand, if it was
raining as it so often does in Edinburgh, I think the outdoor spaces would not be used as the
site lacks sheltered outdoor seating areas.

Besides this I think the building has a strong indoor-outdoor relationship as every façade
bar one has large windows to allow maximum natural light into the spaces bringing the view
of the outdoors inside. The southeast facing façade lacks windows on the old stone section
of the building due to it abutting the neighbouring building. Maximum natural light into the
space makes the interior feel positive and suitable for relaxed work and conversations, LED
lighting was on in the main workspaces creating a more intensive working atmosphere.
Natural light through large windows allows the building to have maximum solar gains.
Windows across the building can be opened and adjusted or covered with blinds for
adaptive thermal comfort and natural ventilation if required.

The entrance to the building is elevated by steps and covered by a portico. Movement into
the building is staggered by passing through a vestibule then a small entrance room before
reaching the main circulation space. These transitional spaces act as draft lobbies to restrict
the loss of heat from the interior and help to regulate temperature of users entering the
space from outdoor to indoor. I felt overall the indoor temperature was perfect as I prefer
what I call “jumper temperature”. This is the perfect median because people can keep on
their jumper to stay warm or if they feel too hot, they can take their jumper off to suit their
thermal comfort.

The main staircase is situated within the central congregation space which acts as the
principal hub for movement around the building. As well as a lift behind the staircase
enabling disabled access to all floors.

In conclusion I found it inspiring visiting the ECCI building as it has given me a good
precedent for sustainable design and efficient passive technologies such as the large
adjustable windows for solar gains, natural ventilation, and adaptive thermal comfort. I
think the central circulation space creates a good flow of movement within the building as
well as acting as a place for accidental congregation and conversation. The spaces have
positive and productive atmospheres as well as places for more relaxed conversation, all
connecting users to views of the outdoors. This therefore is a building I will pleasantly visit
and utilise in the future.