Navigating Architecture towards Net Zero
by Sean Hill on Aug 31, 2023
At RISE Design Studio, we’ve always championed a sustainable approach, especially in recent years when the climate crisis is more pressing than ever. As someone who’s seen the tide change and observed the inertia in adoption, let me take you through the essence of creating low-energy, …
Redefining Sustainable Architecture: The Pioneering EnerPHit Standard
by Sean Hill on Aug 20, 2023
Given the pressing need for low-energy and low-embodied carbon designs, the industry has seen a growing emphasis on standards like Passivhaus for new builds. But what about the vast number of existing buildings that do not meet these criteria? Enter EnerPHit.
Balancing Comfort and Efficiency: Understanding the Cooling Potential of MVHR Systems and Beyond
by Sean Hill on Aug 18, 2023
Over the years, I’ve had many clients ask me about Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems and their capacity for cooling. This summer, we have received a great number of enquiries about MVHR systems and whether they can be adapted to offer additional cooling. MVHR sy …
Housing Retrofit and the Quest for Airtightness: An Architect’s Guide
by Sean Hill on Aug 14, 2023
What is airtightness? Here, I aim to give you a deeper understanding of what airtightness is, combining theory with the practicalities we’ve encountered working on the many low-energy retrofit and new build projects we’ve completed. Proclima Intello tape uses for airtightness on this …
Unravelling the Heat Pump Enigma: Debunking Misconceptions and Illuminating the Facts
by Sean Hill on Aug 8, 2023
As we work alongside the UK’s net-zero carbon mission, one technology has emerged as instrumental – the heat pump. Yet, misconceptions surround it, impeding its adoption. In this guide, we’ll address and debunk 20 prevailing myths.
The Architect’s Guide to Modern Plaster Walls: Uncovering Six Distinct Techniques
by Sean Hill on Aug 3, 2023
Over the years we have grown increasingly attentive to the intricate details of the spaces we live in. Our focus has been on designs that optimise low energy and low embodied carbon. One of the critical facets of this work is the understanding and use of the materials we put into thes …
Shaping Tomorrow’s Buildings: Towards Carbon-Positive Architecture
by Sean Hill on Aug 1, 2023
We have been involved in exploring the new frontiers of low-energy and low-embodied carbon designs for many years. Today, I’m excited to share the crucial role architects, like us, have in fighting the biggest challenge of our age – the climate crisis. Chapter 1: The Imperative of Car …
Considering a Spacious Home Extension? Prior Approval Application for Larger Home Extension
by Sean Hill on Jul 28, 2023
Is it possible to construct an eight-metre-deep extension without the requirement for planning permission? Allow us to elaborate on the possibilities and limitations within the scope of Prior Approval. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insights and strategies for navigating the …
The Future of London’s Historic Houses: Revitalising the Old with EnerPHit Refurbishments
by Sean Hill on Jul 27, 2023
Our journey in refurbishing London’s historic homes has led us to embrace the EnerPHit refurbishment strategy. This methodology guides us in revitalising older buildings to meet modern efficiency standards, and crucially, aligns with the government’s ‘2050 net-zero‘ carbon emissions t …
Acoustic Architecture: The Resounding Legacy of Sound Mirrors
by Sean Hill on Jul 27, 2023
We have often drawn upon diverse sources of inspiration, ranging from the natural world to historical structures. Over the years, our focus has evolved towards incorporating principles of low energy and low embodied carbon into our designs, aligning with the urgent need for sustainabl …
