Materials and Technology Analysis

This item explores the relevant fabric selection and technology options available for the project to facilitate the project team in choosing the most sustainable approach possible given the project constraints. This item also greatly strengthens any sustainability statement.

It involves the creation of a series of comparison studies to clarify for the design team which options are suited specifically to the project being considered. In each case the options are broken down with associated pros and cons, costings (where available) and associated recommendations.

• Fabric - Researching suitable fabric options, calculating U-values and associated wall build-ups with wall thicknesses calculated

• Foundations Review - Comparison of floor and foundation options (suspended and solid) including an embodied carbon assessment and compatibility assessment

• Glazing Approach - Consideration given to passive lighting and shading solutions

• Building Services Review and Technology Selection - Outline specification and feasibility for DHW and cold water, space heating, ventilation, heat pump and PV array (rough generation calculation)

• Renewable Energy Generation - Research into suitable forms of energy generation, energy management options, PV panel and mounting types, and accurate calculation of generation potential accounting for shading effects