At the forefront of sustainable engineering, the combination of Passivhaus design with cutting-edge facade engineering delivers a reliable solution towards achieving net-zero carbon buildings. At Henriksen Studio, we are pioneers in this field, leveraging our expertise to address the challenge of operational energy saving in high-rise developments. In this article we emphasise the fabric-first approach of Passivhaus design and its integration with facade engineering, illustrating it with our current landmark projects in London: Palmerston Court in Battersea and 2 Trafalgar Way in Canary Wharf.
Passivhaus design centres on a fabric-first approach, which underscores the importance of the building's envelope, fine-tuning the balance between the architectural design intent and key performance factors such as optimising solar control and minimising thermal losses. This process starts with our close collaboration with the Client, Architect and Building Services Consultant during the concept stage to determine suitable form factors and glazing ratios. We then focus meticulously on the five fundamental pillars of Passivhaus design: thermal insulation, airtightness, high-performance glazing, thermal bridging mitigation, and the integration of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. The inclusion of natural ventilation, shading and other passive design elements leads to buildings that achieve remarkable energy efficiency while ensuring superior comfort for occupants.
Henriksen Studio stands at the forefront of sustainable engineering, offering unique expertise in facade engineering and Passivhaus design for high-rise buildings. Our portfolio includes pioneering projects such as Palmerston Court in Battersea and 2 Trafalgar Way in Canary Wharf, both of which represent the largest Passivhaus standard high-rise developments in Europe.
Palmerston Court, designed in collaboration with AHMM and commissioned by Urbanest, showcases our ability to integrate Passivhaus principles with innovative facade solutions. Working alongside main contractor Mace and facade contractor Skonto, we achieved exceptional energy efficiency while maintaining architectural integrity.
Similarly, 2 Trafalgar Way, designed by Apt and developed by Urbanest, exemplifies our commitment to sustainability and excellence in engineering. Teaming up with main contractor Midgard and facade contractor McMullen, we pushed the boundaries of energy performance, setting new standards for sustainable urban development.
In conclusion, the combination of Passivhaus design and facade engineering offers a proven and quantifiable solution towards achieving net-zero carbon buildings. Henriksen Studio's expertise and experience in this field positions us as leaders in sustainable engineering, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. As we continue to pioneer new solutions and collaborate with visionary architects, clients, and contractors, we remain steadfast in our commitment to engineering a more sustainable future for generations to come.
