Sustainability Report
Embodied carbon
The central embodied carbon strategy was deep retrofit and retention, preserving the carbon already embedded in the existing Victorian warehouse structure.
Key measures include:
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Structure Retention: Original masonry walls, cast-iron columns, and timber joists were retained, avoiding the carbon impacts of new structural materials.
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Lightweight Additions: The new three-storey rear extension and set-back rooftop volume were designed using lightweight systems to reduce structural loads.
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Foundation Reuse: By minimizing new loads, the design avoided new foundations or underpinning, eliminating the high embodied carbon typically associated with concrete works.
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Low-Carbon Materials: A bespoke low-concrete blockwork core was introduced for the new lift and stair access, balancing strength, performance, and material efficiency.
Operational Emissions / Energy
The operational design follows a fabric-first approach integrated with fossil-fuel-free systems, achieving verifiable reductions in energy use and emissions.
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High-Performance Envelope: All retained sash windows were replaced with triple glazing, improving thermal performance and airtightness.
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Energy Efficiency: New-build elements achieved an emission rate of 15 kgCO₂/m²/year, representing a 34% improvement over current UK Building Regulations.
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Fully Electric Systems: The building operates without gas, relying solely on electricity for heating, cooling, and hot water.
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Ventilation and Air Quality: An MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) system provides filtered air while minimizing heat loss and improving indoor air quality.
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Solar Gain Management: A detailed overheating analysis optimized glazing and shading on the south façade to maximize daylight while avoiding glare.
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On-site Renewables: Photovoltaic panels on the roof supply renewable electricity.
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Efficient Controls: Zoned heating and LED lighting systems further minimize operational demand.
Service and maintenance emissions
Long-term carbon performance was addressed through strategies promoting durability, repairability, and ease of maintenance.
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Demountable Core: The new stair and lift core was designed as a repairable, demountable element, allowing for future reuse or disassembly.
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Durable Fabric: High-quality, low-maintenance materials were specified throughout, supporting longevity and minimizing replacement cycles.
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Transparent Material Specification: Clear product documentation facilitates responsible maintenance and end-of-life management
Afterlife
The project is itself a model of adaptive reuse, transforming a Victorian warehouse into a contemporary office and showroom. The refurbishment stripped away over a century of modifications to reveal the building’s original structural clarity — a flexible open grid of brick piers, iron columns, and timber joists. This inherent adaptability supports future reprogramming without major structural intervention.
Adopting circular principles, new construction prioritized lightweight, modular additions for easier deconstruction than heavy concrete. The design fully retains existing masonry and timber floors. Components are designed for dismantling and recycling, minimizing single-use finishes. An exposed blockwork core demonstrates durable simplicity through its robust, adaptable nature. This demountable core is repairable or removable for reuse, supporting long-term circular economy goals.
Key products in low carbon design
