Wimbish Passivhaus

Feb 1, 2013 |NBS

Wimbish Passivhaus Project is a fourteen-dwelling Passivhaus-certified scheme in Wimbish, Essex. This programme looks at how the architect, Parsons + Whittley, and Bramall – the contractor, used Passivhaus design and construction methods to achieve both Passivhaus certification and Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

This programme will be of particular relevance to architects and developers with an interest in Passivhaus principles, and for those working on schemes where the aim is to achieve Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH), and beyond.

Key learning points:

  • An overview of the Passivhaus principles and ensuring certification
  • The materials and construction methods used at Wimbish
  • The relationship between Level 4 of the CSH and Passivhaus

Discussion points:

  • How would you describe a Passivhaus house?
  • What is the difference between Passivhaus and Level 4 CSH?
  • What materials and construction methods are commonly used in Passivhaus methodology
  • Why have so few passivhaus schemes been completed in the UK

About the contributors

Chris Parsons, an associate of the CIOB, founded Parsons + Whittley Architects in 1986. The chartered-architects practice has extensive experience in housing as well as in education and commercial buildings.

Chris's interest in Passivhaus started around 2006 and he has worked to promote the methodology to a wide range of clients.

John Lefever, Regional head of Development, Hastoe Housing Association, has worked over the last 21 years in both private and public housing, lectured at Anglia Ruskin University, and delivered over 500 code level 4 homes and a straw bale scheme.

John now manages Hastoe’s Eastern Region team and as well as Wimbish, he has another seven Passivhaus schemes in the pipeline.

RIBA CPDDisclaimer: NBS TV programmes are the intellectual property of RIBA Enterprises and it shall be a breach of this right to copy, or in any way exploit commercially or show in public any of the programmes without the express permission of RIBA Enterprises.
The information contained in the programmes is not intended and accordingly shall not be relied upon either as a substitute for professional advice or judgement or to provide legal or other advice with respect to any particular circumstance. RIBA Enterprises accepts no responsibility for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the information contained in the programmes.
 

Our latest articles

The hidden cost of compliance: why architects are demanding a new era of product transparency

Few pieces of legislation have reshaped the UK construction industry as significantly as the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA). Introduced to improve accountability, traceability and safety standards across the built environment, the legislation has fundamentally changed the responsibilities placed on architects, contractors and manufacturers. While the principles behind the Act are widely supported, the reality for architectural practices is proving more challenging than many anticipated.

Brick slip cladding systems – the need for robust specification

This article from the NBS technical team outlines specification for brick slip technology, including history, technology, design, safety and testing.

Design and SpecificationConstruction Products

Rethinking MMC: delivering speed without increasing risk

The need to build more homes, more quickly, has not changed. If anything, the pressure has intensified. However, the conversation around Modern Methods of Construction has evolved.