Project: Harpurhey Eco-Refurbishment
Location: Harpurhey, Manchester
Value: £TBC

As part of 'Sustainability in Design' research, existing terraced houses were evaluated to see what improvements could be made to the existing dwellings as an alternative to the hugely energy intensive option of demolition and redevelopment.

The existing structure proved to be satisfactory and we then developed a strategy for improvement that allowed for a menu of options to be adopted depending on the budget available.

The base level modifications included upgrading the overall aesthetics to be more in keeping with contemporary aspirations, including internal re-ordering, a comprehensive 'enveloping' scheme with high performance windows, external insulation and over-render, increased levels of roof insulation and the formation of external lobbies to the main entrances for energy conservation. The provision of enclosed balconies to living rooms to increase floor area and provide drying space was included as an option.

The energy strategy involved passive stack ventilation, centralised high efficiency condensing boiler with domestic hot water preheated by solar panels, daylighting provided by enlarged windows and 'sun-pipes' and landlords power assisted by Photovoltaics.

Recycling facilities were housed within the new entrance areas, and rain water harvesting was proposed as an option to reduce water consumption.