Sustainability
Sustainability is more than just bolt on technologies, such as photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps. Although Alice Gurney Architects do advise all clients on the appropriateness of such technologies, we like to take a more holistic approach to building design. Orientation, topography and site context are all considered at the early stages to ensure the actual design is suitable to the function required of it.
Alice Gurney Architects has experience in designing buildings that include the latest technologies and construction techniques. Amongst those we employ where appropriate are the following:
Photovoltaic Panels
Solar Thermal Panels
Ground Source Heat Pumps
Air Source Heat Pumps
Rainwater Harvesting and Grey Water Systems
Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR)
Structural insulated panels (SIPs)
Insulated concrete form (ICF) construction
Lifetime Homes criteria
Responsibly sourced and sustainable materials
Sustainability is rooted in context. Designing with an understanding of place, environment and available resources leads to buildings that are both enduring and responsible.
Existing buildings can be massively improved by retrofit: targeted upgrades to insulation, glazing, heating, ventilation and controls reduce energy consumption, improve thermal comfort and air quality, and lower running costs. Thoughtful retrofitting also extends the lifespan of structures, reduces carbon emissions, and can enhance usability and value without the waste and embodied carbon of demolition and rebuild.