Minimising energy consumption at St Richard’s Hospice.

When St Richard’s Hospice set out to improve their facilities, they had a bold vision. To create a comfortable and welcoming space with tranquil facilities that could be enjoyed by staff, patients and their families alike. The hospice’s new annex – delivered in association with KKE Chartered Architects – is testament to these intentions. A cherished environment fusing low carbon technologies and Passivhaus design principles.

A team effort

We were appointed to help deliver the hospice’s vision for a number of reasons. Firstly, our technical expertise and capabilities in developing business cases for low carbon technologies. Secondly, our skills in integrating these technologies into wider low carbon Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) Design solutions, especially in sensitive healthcare environments. And lastly, our ability to work hand-in-hand with key partners. In this case, KKE Chartered Architects, based in Worcester.

Making an impact

The new construction followed the principles of Passivhaus building design which minimises energy consumption via excellent thermal performance (U-Value), exceptional airtightness and controlled, natural ventilation.

Low-carbon technologies were also incorporated, including low energy lighting with automatic controls, automated natural passive stack ventilation and high thermal insulation. Combined with a new high efficiency central boiler plant and an advanced building control system, the development has led to reduced consumption and can be considered as carbon neutral.

Driving results

The project incorporates numerous stand-out features:

• A Passivhaus design which minimise infiltration losses
• A passive stack ensuring natural ventilation with an advanced building control system to optimise airflow
• A carbon neutral heat provision strategy
• An energy efficient lighting system with automatic dimming control

New or reimagined buildings have the power to create more meaningful human connections alongside their ability to be environmentally responsible.

If you have ambitions to optimise an existing building’s performance or want to create something entirely new, we can help.