Thistle’s Interior Fit Out Team Assist Blue Chip Client with Energy Efficiency Programme

Thistle Systems’ Interior Fit Out Team has helped a major blue chip client to design and implement part of its energy efficiency programme in one of its Scottish facilities with a focus on a workshop toilet area.

Working closely with the Facilities Manager, who was looking for a solution that made the area more acceptable and durable whilst reducing the energy consumption as well as the ongoing costs of maintenance, Thistle Systems’ project team transformed the toilet facility to create a modern yet functional look with a combination of clever design solutions and innovative products.

Thistle replaced the existing 16 sinks and vanity units which required their own water heater and installed a large trough-styled stainless steel sink unit. This was fed by a single water heater and featured self-closing push down taps which were set to provide a constant temperature. The combination of each of these dramatically reduced the energy consumption of the hot water system with the added benefit of reducing overall water usage.

The standard hot air hand driers were replaced with Dyson Airblades which use the friction of the air flow to provide a degree of heat as opposed to using an actual heating element. With savings on running costs expected to be as high as 90% and a reduction in drying time, the initial investment will be quickly recouped.

Thistle also looked at improving the cleaning methods of the toilet area and installed floor drains and new heavy duty vinyl flooring to make the facility quicker and easier to maintain on a day to day basis.

Vandalism and abuse of the toilets had also been a real challenge for the client over the years and Thistle included a number of features to address this issue.

Anti-graffiti paint to the cubicle walls and doors. The height of the sink unit was raised substantially to discourage workers from sitting on it and breaking the unit. All pipework was boxed in to prevent breakages and UV lights were installed in the cubicles to minimise occupation times.

Thistle Systems’ Interiors Project Manager explained, “We have always placed a strong focus on delivering energy efficient solutions as part of our interior fit out service however with the forthcoming legislation which is forcing every company to reduce their carbon emission we are now receiving a number of projects where this is the main objective.”

He continued, “With our extensive experience in delivering energy efficient solutions across a broad range of sectors from corporate to industrial and from clean rooms to toilet areas, we can advise clients on how simple changes to design can make a significant impact on their energy bills.”