EDITOR ’ S CHOICE
ALUPROF HELPS PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF PASSIVHAUS
BY WOJCIECH BROŻYNA - MD OF ALUPROF UK
When we talk of Passivhaus we generally think of ‘ one-off ’ grand designs style projects where costs seem no objection , but this is a dated view as Passivhaus is rapidly becoming a mainstream construction methodology . Recent cost analysis from the Passivhaus Trust ( 1 ) suggests that a Passivhaus certified residential scheme is around 8 % more expensive than an equivalent competitive tender build ; further analysis suggests as Passivhaus claims more middle ground in construction , the extra-over costs can reduce to just 4 %.
Passivhaus is not all about cost , it is about a commitment to net-zero carbon emissions . Currently housing stock is accountable for approximately 35 % of our total global energy consumption , so insulation is key in order to reduce our reliance on energy and our ability to reduce and phase out fossil heating fuels , such as gas . There are also health benefits and fuel poverty issues which are completely covered by adopting a Passivhaus construction .
insulation windows and doors on the project . Alex Wysom , Operations Director at Denval takes up the story , “ Aluprof worked with Stride Treglown Architects to provide a comprehensive specification for their high performance Passivhaus certified MB- 104 window system from the earliest stage , Denval provided cost plan and technical support to the project management company and subsequently the main contractors who were providing tenders for the scheme .
“ Since the earliest stages of our involvement with the project , we have worked closely with Aluprof , who have supported Denval with excellent technical
Given the background growth of Passivhaus , Aluprof are delighted to announce their involvement in what is claimed to be the world ’ s largest low-carbon student residential development taking place in Bristol for The University of the West of England ( UWE ). The new development taking place at the Frenchay Campus covers approximately 65,000m2 and provides 2,250 new student residences . The scheme started on site in 2021 and is set to have the first phase complete for first-year student intake in 2023 . Designed by Passivhaus Trust members Stride Treglown Architects and QODA Consulting , the new halls will offer carbon neutral accommodation which falls inline with the University ’ s ‘ 2030 strategy ’. The project follows on from what now will be the second largest student accommodation project completed to date , ’ The House ’ at Cornell Tech in New York .
Aluprof UK became involved in the design development of the scheme from RIBA Stage 2 and worked alongside Stride Treglown , QODA Consulting and Turner & Townsend to develop a high performance facade solution which helps the new development to achieve Passivhaus standards . Facade detailing and cost analysis support was provided by Aluprof UK prior to tender release to ensure budgets met stakeholders ’ expectations . Aluprof UK also offered tender support to VINCI Construction UK , the main contractor awarded the scheme , in the careful selection of Aluprof experienced subcontractors to deliver a compliant tender . Aluprof UK have been involved in a collaborative process from RIBA Stage 2 onwards and will continue to support the project through to its completion .
Denval , located in Cardiff , have been nominated to install the high
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