ombola is the largest online gaming company in Europe and are constantly growing and expanding their workforce. When the company wanted to attract top level talent, they decided to build a new headquarters in Sunderland.

The impressive building overlooks River Wear, as well as the city of Sunderland. Due to the waterfront location, the design had to be sensitive to its surroundings and cause minimum impact to the landscape whilst maximising its connection to the city centre, which is located half a mile away.

A full glass façade was utilised for the luxury offices, which provides a flexible working environment to employees. The fully glazed façade design allows an abundance of natural light into the building throughout the day, whilst granting exceptional views from the neighbouring streets. The triple dwelling design incorporates gable end glazing, with large elevations of glass following the pitched roof design for a stunning result.

The glass façade is split into multiple panes, with different floors following different designs, resulting in a completely unique design. The expansive use of glass means the employees will benefit from enhanced productivity and general wellness, as is proven from the effects of natural light.

Electrochromic glass was specified within the glass façade design, to offer the occupants a form of solar shading. As with any highly glazed building, solar control must be considered to eliminate the risk of overheating or discomfort from solar glare. In these offices, the electrochromic glass prevents solar glare and controls the solar gain without fully obstructing the light or views that additional blind systems would.

In some cases, electrochromic glass can help to reduce heating and cooling costs. The electrochromic glass has a blue tint when switched on and is particularly well suited to projects of this nature where the glass is split into different panes. The electrochromic glass can be switched on and operated by level, depending on the position of the sun throughout the day.

The blue tint is well suited to the waterfront location, as the reflective surface can reflect the nearby water when it is switched on/tinted. These modern offices now benefit from enhanced functionality, as well as a contemporary design to suit the brands growing needs.