HEALTHY BUILDINGS: First Building in Hampshrie to receive Fitwell Certification

The RO Group is pleased to confirm they are the first company to have secured Fitwel certification for a building in Hampshire. Fitwel is a healthy building measure that is quickly gaining traction in the UK and Europe, with registered projects in over 35 countries. The building, One Dorset Street in Southampton, is also only the second multi-tenanted building in Europe to have been awarded this certification. The first multi-tenanted building in Europe to have secured Fitwel certification is another of the RO’s buildings: Dakota in Weybridge, Surrey.

Fitwel sets out over 55 evidence-based design and operational strategies that enhance buildings by addressing a broad range of health behaviours and risks. Each strategy was associated with unique point allocations in One Dorset Street, based on the strength of evidence and the demonstrated impact on occupant health in the building. One Dorset Street has received a 2 Star certification, from the 3 Star categorisation.

One Dorset Street has a total floor area of 24,564 sq ft (2,282 m²) and is an architecturally striking stand-alone office space in one of the most prominent parts of Southampton’s main business district. It has been fully refurbished to a very high standard to meet the requirements of the modern office occupier and can be configured to provide office space from 2,992 sq ft to 18,246 sq ft. The office space has a barriered car park and secure, enclosed cycle storage and separate shower and changing facilities. The office includes a new inspirational reception and business lounge area on the ground floor.

David Kershaw, Group Real Estate Director, the RO commented:

“We are very proud to have the first Fitwel certified building in Hampshire, a key regional growth area for the UK. Everything in One Dorset Street’s space has been designed to improve workers’ health and productivity and to create a welcoming environment.

“Employees are increasingly aware of betterment in office environments generally. Landlords and employers, across all sizes of buildings and businesses, should take note. In the race for talent, these trends cannot be ignored.”

Georgia Elliott-Smith, Director at Element 4 Group Ltd added:

“I am delighted with this result. This now gives the RO the first and second multi-tenanted Fitwel certifications in the UK and Europe, making the RO the region’s leading landlord for occupant wellbeing. Congratulations!”

 The RO Group