Our Role

We were the Passivhaus Designer/Consultant for this development completed in 2022. It consists of 50 rooms and communal spaces for homeless people as a stepping stone to independent living.

The values of HARP aligned well with our own and the Passivhaus approach is perfect for this use; it delivers very low running costs for the charity and a healthy, warm home for their occupants - providing exceptional social value.

The constraints on the site meant that dormer windows were a must, a difficult detail to do well. Understanding and feeding back what details are likely to be difficult to construct or add cost to a scheme is a critical part of our role, allowing the client to better control the project through informed decisions. In this case, through multiple iterations a solution was found that could be delivered as part of the standard timber frame.

Client Testimonials

"We found the support and guidance provided by WARM to be invaluable, you embraced the project and helped us through a very steep learning curve to achieve a really special project.

“Bluebird” was one of the first of its kind to create a row of passive house buildings to accommodate individuals experiencing homelessness, and has gone on to achieve substantial recognition within the architectural and construction field , all of which we are very proud.

More importantly the sympathetic incorporation of the passive house features has created a truly wonderful place to live for our residents, so thank you."

Awards

Civic Trust Awards 2025 - Regional Finalist

RIBA Stephen Lawrence prize 2024 - Shortlisted

RIBA East Award 2024 - Winner

RIBA East Sustainability Award 2024 - Winner

Photo Credit: Billy Haynes