Rare’s new building Barn X, revealed on Earth Day 2024 stands as a beacon of sustainable design

On Earth Day 2024, Rare, a prominent Xbox Game Studio, proudly unveiled its latest architectural marvel, Barn X, located on its existing Leicestershire campus. This new game development space, initiated in 2020 amidst the uncertainties of future work environments, stands as a testament to sustainable architecture and innovative design, having achieved the prestigious LEED GOLD certification.

Rare’s Barn X: Sustainable design at the core

Barn X is not just a building; it’s a statement of sustainability and forward-thinking. Spanning 1,200 square meters, the structure is crafted to inspire creativity and foster collaboration among its occupants. Craig Duncan, the studio head at Rare, emphasized the building’s role in redefining the future of gaming studios. He noted, “We asked ourselves, ‘What might the gaming studio of the future look like?’” The answer lies in the seamless integration of technology, creativity, teamwork, and artwork within Barn X’s design.

Collaboration and comfort

The development of Barn X was a collaborative effort involving Rare, the Microsoft real estate team, London architecture firm LOM, and Dublin-based sustainability design advisors RKD. This partnership ensured that every element of the building was aligned with the goal of fostering an energizing, creative, and refreshing workspace. The building’s layout includes ample room for team collaboration while also providing quiet spaces and areas with sound deadening to accommodate different working styles and needs.

Carbon negativity

Barn X embodies Microsoft’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability. The company aims to be carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030. This building contributes to these goals with its sustainable design features that minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency and resource conservation.

LEED GOLD Certification

Achieving LEED GOLD certification, Barn X stands as a world-recognized symbol of sustainable building practices. This certification underscores the building’s design and operational efficiencies that significantly reduce its carbon footprint and enhance its environmental friendliness. The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is a globally acknowledged benchmark that assesses buildings on various sustainability parameters, including energy usage, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources.

Building features

Barn X is designed with the well-being of its users in mind. It includes adjustable desk lighting to suit individual preferences and spaces that allow staff to find calm and privacy. The décor is intentionally calming and stimulating, supporting a balanced environment that caters to neurodiversity and overall mental well-being.

Rare’s Barn X building revealed on Earth Day 2024

Rare’s new building, Barn X, unveiled on Earth Day 2024, is more than just a workspace for game development. It is a pioneering example of how sustainable design can be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of creative industries. By achieving LEED GOLD certification, Barn X not only supports Microsoft’s environmental goals but also sets a new standard for eco-friendly design in the technology and gaming industry. This development marks a significant step forward in the journey towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.