British Council for Offices proposes changes to key design criteria in the BCO Guide to Specification - FMJ
British Council for Offices proposes changes to key design criteria in the BCO Guide to Specification - FMJ
Abstract
The British Council for Offices has released a position paper proposing updated key design criteria, as part of its most recognised publication, the BCO Guide to Specification. The guide, which is normally published every four or five years, provides expert best practice advice on how to specify office space, helping industry practitioners provide space that meets the needs of occupiers, helping them to conduct their business in safe, healthy, comfortable, and productive workspaces. This selective update comes ahead of schedule and is in response to significant changes to the office sector since its last publication in 2019, with the pandemic drastically transforming the way in which we work and use the office. The BCO's current view is that occupancy peaks will be no greater, and utilisation no higher than pre-pandemic levels, when the return to work has stabilised. The paper additionally outlines new recommendations for office design; some considerations included are: Lower average occupancy densities Reduced small power and lighting load allowances New criteria for office lighting and daylighting Revised lift and toilet provision and new sustainability targets An extended range of structural grid sizes Improved ventilation, with a higher rate of outdoor air supply per occupier, and better indoor air quality The intention of these updates to the BCO Guide Key Criteria is to reflect changes in design thinking over the last three years, through the BCO's aim to capture and share best practice guidance informed by research and the expert experience of its members. Many of these criteria will be discussed and explained further at the BCO's annual conference in Manchester this week, where industry experts will expand upon the most pressing considerations for office designers, gauge the views of the broad membership and debate the proposals. We are already working on the revision of the BCO Guide to Fit Out and welcome our members to join the conversation at this week's conference.