Max Fordham shortlisted for four CIBSE Awards!

Agar Grove Phase 1B is part of a scheme to produce 507 homes, 345 of which will be built to Passivhaus standard, and includes the retention and deep retrofit of the estate’s landmark Lulworth Tower. The design has been driven by Camden Council’s overarching vision to tackle fuel poverty and create low-maintenance, robust housing that fosters community and resident wellbeing. Phase 1B was completed in July 2021 and consists of 57 social and market-rate Passivhaus homes. Much of the MEP strategy from Phase 1A has been duplicated, with the Passivhaus ‘fabric first’ approach helping to achieve a high build quality. Individual MVHR units for each apartment provide fresh air and reduce heat loss, while solid materials, comprehensive insulation and robust detailing ensure good noise separation.

This world-first deep retrofitted sustainable office building sets new standards for low energy use, carbon emissions and impact on natural resources, while actively improving user experience and wellbeing. The project applied circular economy principles to minimise the volume and impact of natural and human-made resources used in the building. It has achieved the Passivhaus EnerPHit standard and is targeting several other key sustainable building certifications, including BREEAM 'Outstanding', and WELL Gold certification. Its very low operational energy and the retention of the existing structure have saved 84 per cent in whole-life carbon compared with a standard office retrofit.