Lay & Wheeler
Case Study
Temperature & Humidity Control: The entire building is equipped with a sophisticated temperature and humidity control system to ensure the stable environment needed for wine storage. The technological solutions include advanced thermal insulation to minimise temperature fluctuations, paired with state-of-the-art cooling systems to maintain precise climate conditions throughout the warehouse.
Maximised Wine Storage Capacity: The design team worked closely with Lay & Wheeler to optimise the internal space, allowing the company to maximise its storage capacity while meeting the strict environmental controls necessary for preserving the quality of its products.
Technological and Structural Features
The facility meets high sustainability standards, offering both operational and environmental benefits:
BREEAM ‘Very Good’ Rating: The building was certified for its energy-efficient design and reduced environmental impact.
EPC ‘A’ Rating: The facility achieved top-tier energy efficiency, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable operations.
Sustainability and Certifications
Start Date: April 2022
Completion Date: 10 months later
The project’s timeline was managed efficiently, with practical completion achieved on schedule. The construction was designed with precision to meet the complex environmental requirements for wine storage.
Construction Timeline
Tailored Environmental Controls: Lay & Wheeler's critical requirement was strict control over the internal environment. The warehouse was designed to maintain a constant temperature of 12°C (±1°C) and relative humidity of 65%-70%. These conditions were essential for the proper storage of fine wines and involved incorporating advanced thermal insulation and specialised cooling systems to ensure uniform climate control throughout the facility.
Sustainable Energy Solutions: To ensure sustainable operations, a 0.9MVA photovoltaic array was installed on the roof. This solar power system produces electricity equivalent to the facility's incoming supply, allowing Lay & Wheeler to operate entirely off-grid. This energy self-sufficiency dramatically reduces operational costs and aligns with their sustainability goals.
Key Features of the Development
In response to Lay & Wheeler’s need for a specialised wine storage facility, Port One developed a bespoke, build-to-suit warehouse spanning 113,500 sq ft. As a fine wine merchant, Lay & Wheeler required precise environmental controls to ensure optimal storage conditions. The facility—engineered to maintain constant temperature and humidity—was completed in just 10 months, meeting both operational and sustainability goals.
OVERVIEW
DEVELOPMENT TYPE: BUILD-TO-SUIT
DEVELOPMENT SIZE: 113,500SQ FT
OWNERSHIP TERM: FREEHOLD
BUILD PROGRAMME: 10 MONTHS
