Brich House is a development comprising 37 mews houses designed by Howells for Urban Splash in partnership with Places for People and Canals and River Trust. Infused with an architectural essence reminiscent of the Georgian era, these new homes are strategically centred around a communal garden and a historic canal, emphasising car-free green streets and public green spaces. Unlike typical terraced houses, these homes aimed to prioritise air tightness and insulation, combining aesthetic appeal with enduring, high-quality construction.
What sets this project apart is the integration of digital technologies aimed at providing occupants with a seamless and enhanced living experience. Notably, the inclusion of electric room heaters controlled through online smart apps, a room thermostat, and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) operating at an impressive 88% efficiency marks a shift towards modern, energy-efficient solutions. In addition, the choice of electric cooking eliminates the reliance on gas or fossil fuels, aligning with sustainable practices.
This project underscores a holistic approach to seamlessly merging contemporary technologies with traditional construction, showing an incremental approach to delivering enhanced sustainability targets.
How does this project perform against the WMCA Homes for Future Technical Standards?
Key:
Energy
| O = Project Metrics M = Measure and Monitor | Statutory Plus | 2025 | 2030 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operational Energy (kWh/m2) | M | < 35 | < 35 |
| Space Heating Demand (kWh/m2/yr) | M | 15 - 20 | < 15 |
| Embodied Carbon (kgCO2/m2) | M ~ 500 | < 400 | < 300 |
| Pre-Manufactured Value Material cost/total cost ratio | M 40 | 50 | 55 |