Student accommodation certified as UK's largest Passivhaus building
London student accommodation provider Urbanest has achieved accreditation for the largest Passivhaus building in the UK.
The more than 17,964 sq m development near Battersea Power Station, designed by RIBA Stirling Prize winning architecture practice Allford Hall Monaghan Morris with Passivhaus design specialists Henriksen Studio, can house 853 students.
Thomas Henriksen, founder and director of Henriksen Studio, said the project set “new standards for sustainable student accommodation”.
The purpose-built scheme, which received certification from the Passivhaus Institut, incorporates four blocks that range in height from 11 to 19 storeys. It features ensuite and studio rooms, a cinema, a gym and roof terraces.
Urbanest said that, in addition to being the largest Passivhaus building in the UK, it is the eighth largest in the world, plus the largest student dormitory or university building in Europe to be designed to Passivhaus standards.
The development is Urbanest’s first Passivhaus scheme. The company is working on a second, in Canary Wharf, which it said would be the largest residential Passivhaus development in the world on completion next year.
Angus Kearin, head of development at Urbanest, said:
“From the start we wanted our Battersea development to be an exemplar for future projects not only in London but in cities all over the world that need to respond to the net zero challenge. This is just the beginning of our Passivhaus journey, and we look forward to continuing our work with the Passivhaus Insititute to achieve accreditation at urbanest Canary Wharf, and all further urbanest schemes going forward.”
Constructed by Mace using off-site technology, the development, which has colourful glazed terracotta façades, was delivered to BREEAM 2018 Outstanding standard.
Urbanest said the low-energy construction concept made efficient use of the sun, internal heat sources and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, bringing space heating and cooling-related energy savings of up to 90% compared with typical buildings and more than 75% compared to average new builds.
Dragos Arnautu, building certifier at the Passivhaus Institut, said:
“Urbanest Battersea exemplifies the benefits and innovation of Passivhaus design applied to student living.
“Delivering unmatched energy efficiency, Passivhaus buildings maintain consistent indoor temperatures and superior air quality, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems. Students benefit from a thermally-stable space conducive to focus and relaxation, while the integration of renewable energy sources aligns with broader climate goals.
“This building also stands out for prioritising community and modern amenities, offering a holistic lifestyle that balances sustainability with urban convenience.”
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