HB Reavis’ Agora Budapest achieves BREEAM highest ratings in Hungary

The Agora development in Budapest, by international workspace provider HB Reavis, now has two BREEAM sustainability assessment standards. Agora Tower has achieved the Excellent level, and Agora Hub raised the bar further to reach Outstanding, the first in Hungary.

With the highest-rated buildings in Hungary and the only Outstanding certification, the results reflect HB Reavis’ strategy of creating architecture and projects sustainably and responsibly. It’s an approach built into their processes, from conceptual design and build through to their ongoing operational management.

BREEAM looks into a number of aspects of the building, from rainwater collection and alternative forms of transport – bicycles, charging stations for electric cars – to sustainable use of energy and biodiversity improvements around the project.

Both Agora buildings were found to be highly environmentally sustainable, helping protect natural resources while enhancing the health and wellbeing of the people who work there, as well as local residents. Examples include a façade and footplates that provide exceptional levels of natural light and expansive views from all levels. As well as access measures that ensure everyone can work and enjoy its features; the building’s mechanical design is future-proofed against the expected effects of climate change.

Rainwater is collected in the basement and used to irrigate plantings. The building’s tap water is also partially heated by solar roof panels, with an energy and water consumption system flagging any outages. 3 percent of the parking spaces have electric charge points, and with hundreds of bicycle racks as well as changing rooms and showers, the building encourages more sustainable modes of transport and healthy lifestyles too.

Agora  buildings are already sharing their benefits with clients such as Raiffeisen Bank, B+N Referencia Zrt., and  bp.

Agora Tower and Agora Hub were granted WELL Precertification at the Gold level last year. Their high ranking in the assessments proves that HB Reavis is successfully translating its people-centric development approach into buildings that focus on people’s health and active lifestyles.