Studio BE. are working with Gant Landscape Architects on a new build Passivhaus and integrated landscape scheme in Stroud, Gloucestershire. The objective is a healthy & low energy family home which sits harmoniously on the site.
Our design philosophy is inspired and led by nature.
The design of a ‘Living’ building seeks to balance the natural systems of the site, each element is dependent on all others. By closely observing and integrating with on-site eco-cycles and applying passivhaus criteria we seek to to achieve Net Zero Carbon by following operational and embodied carbon guidance.
The RIBA 2030 climate challenge provides a stepped approach towards reaching net zero by 2030. In brief;
Reduce operational energy demand by at least 75%, before UK offsetting
Reduce embodied carbon by at least 50-70%, before UK offsetting
Reduce potable water use by at least 40%
Achieve all core health and wellbeing targets
RIBA Stage 2 - Concept Design 3D model
Fabric first principles
From the outset we establish a palette of sustainable materials which contribute to achieving zero carbon targets. Stroud Passivhaus embodies these principles in taking a fabric first approach, materials pallete includes a central Rammed Earth wall, Clay blocks and natural stone. 1. Non-toxic, healthy and vapour open materials 2. High levels of insulation and high-performance windows 3. High thermal mass materials absorb, store and release heat.
Refer to ACAN https://www.architectscan.org/naturalmaterials
We define 'natural materials' as: Materials that are abundant or renewable, with minimal processing and therefore low-embodied energy. Materials that are healthy, non-toxic and part of a continuous life cycle: easily reused, recycled or returned to the earth. Materials that are sourced responsibly, with minimal ecological damage and preferably part of a regenerative land stewardship.
Preventing heat loss and improving air quality
Passivhaus buildings are made airtight to prevent heat loss through air escaping through the building fabric. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) is then required to provide adequate ventilation with heat recovery, ensuring that fresh air is circulated, and heat retained 1. Careful detailing reduces heat losses through junctions 2. An extremely airtight building 3. A compact form with reduced surface area means there is less heat losses. 4. Effective ventilation is vital for ensuring good indoor air quality, to mitigate heat build-up and to remove excess moisture. Passivhaus adopts a 'mixed mode' ventilation strategy, through background (mechanical) and purge/natural ventilation (through openable windows).
Harnessing solar gains
The orientation of the building is within 20 degrees of due south. This is the optimum orientation for Passivhaus to enable efficient solar gains, using the suns free energy to passively heat the building. 1. The design provides shading on the south in the summer whilst allowing heat gains in the winter. 2. Free heat is captured in winter from solar gains with predominant facades south and limited overshadowing
Integrated water strategy
Harnessing the natural slope of the land and integrating the existing brook into the design is integral to the water strategy. 1. Rainwater harvesting smooth metal roof 2. Green/brown roof absorbs and releases rainwater slowly 3. Rainwater pipes 4. Reduced use of clean drinking water for services 5. Rainwater filter (underground) 7. Rainwater collection 6. Rainwater overflow to attenuation pond 8. Surface rainwater directed for landscape irrigation 8. Re-establish stream 9. Main sewer connection
“In building for the 21st century - and with our children’s health, wellbeing and future in mind - we need to take a more cyclic approach, whereby we seek to resolve the cycles without environmental damage.”
