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Here are some examples of good design principles that are encouraged in planning improvements to existing or halls or in the design of new halls:
Architectural
- Use of local materials in keeping with surroundings
- Put best quality materials on front elevation
- Consider rendering just the rear rather than all sides
- Low maintenance
- Low technology
- Flat area outside tall double doors - allows marquee to be attached for private functions
- Can two activities be operating simultaneously and yet still use toilet / kitchen facilities?
- Many halls look attractive just because of broken roof line and / or pitched roof porches
- Use of the remainder of hall site (eg terraces, open spaces near hall)
Access for Disabled people
- Ramps to fire exits as well as main entrance
- Chair lift to upper floors
- Wide doors - equal in size to toilet door
- Alternatively, double doors should be one wide and one small to allow wheelchair access
- Long door handles
- Colour contrasting doors (to assist people with visual impairments)
- Induction loop
- Toilet for disabled, could be unisex - allows mums and dads to use as a baby changing facility
- Renewable Energy systems
- Lever taps
Energy Efficiency - Dry lining walls
- Double glazing / insulation must be complemented with good natural ventilation (eg trickle vents to windows)
- Orientate building to take advantage of southerly aspect. Put crèche or morning rooms on East side.
- Energy efficient radiation / convector heaters
- Low energy / high efficiency lighting
- Solar panels where showers are provided
- Multi-fuel boiler
- Water saving WCs and urinals
- Heat pump ducted warm air (cool air on reverse cycle)
- Flexible accent lighting
- Master switch at door
- Non-hot covers on radiators
Dual Use - Surgery (‘Flu jabs, dentist, antenatal clinic, etc)
- Schools
- Police station
- Post Office and community shop
Information Technology - PC work stations - resource centre
- Internet, e-mail, education and training