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Sharing our experiences in thoughtful, efficient and sustainable refurbishment projects

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Associate director Hira Teirney participated in the University of the West of England (UWE)'s Green Fortnight event, showcasing insights on our latest refurbishment project at the university.

During the online event, Hira spoke alongside an MEP specialist from CPW on how we are supporting the university to achieve its 2030 Net Zero Carbon target.

One of the ways we’re doing this is by working closely with UWE’s sustainability team to apply EnerPHit, the Passivhaus certificate for retrofits, to our latest project, the A-N Redevelopment. Our vision for the project is centered around the thoughtful reuse and refurbishment of the current buildings.

As a significant part of the Frenchay Campus, EnerPHit will be applied to upgrade the envelope of the buildings, improve cladding, insulation and overall energy efficiency. We will also ensure there’s good ventilation for a comfortable space for staff, students and visitors.

It was fantastic to be involved in UWE’s Green Fortnight event, which brings to light all the progress being made at the university to tackle climate change and protect the natural environment.”

Hira Teirney

Associate Director

Preserving the history of the existing campus

Our commitment to minimise energy consumption echoes our dedication to preserving the rich history ingrained in the campus. The significant Frenchay Campus has been sitting proudly on site since construction began in 1973.

Over the years, there has been a continuous growth and enhancement of the campus to suit the needs of its growing staff and student population. Our vision for the campus will retain its identity as a hub for the university, a place that both staff and students will continue to take pride in working and studying at.

This latest opportunity to work with UWE is a testament to our long-standing relationship with the university, having designed and delivered several major projects in previous years.

Our portfolio of work includes the refurbishment of the existing Traders cafe within the Grade II listed building on Glenside Campus, the School of Engineering on the Frenchay Campus and the new School of Health and Social Wellbeing for future health and social care professionals.

relevant experience

Building on our strong working relationship with the university

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School of Health and Social Wellbeing

The relocation and refurbishment of the School of Health and Social Wellbeing (SHSW), at UWE will transform the way new health and social care professionals are trained.

School of Engineering

We have supported UWE’s strong commitment to sustainability, and their aspiration to achieve carbon neutral by 2030, by creating a low energy, naturally ventilated building made for the future.

Glenside Hub

We refurbished the existing Traders cafe within a Grade II listed building on the Glenside Campus, creating a new social learning hub.

Bower Ashton Campus

Courtyard infill project which grew the size of the library and refectory space in response to a 16% increase in students on the site. 

Bower Ashton Campus

As part of the Faculty of School of Creative Arts, we also remodelled and enhanced the existing Drama School. 

Police Apprenticeship Scheme

The refurbished block includes two 60-seat lecture theatres, office space as well as dedicated interview and scenario rooms to facilitate the teaching of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship Programme. 

Child Nursing Simulation Suite

The project included a state-of-the-art, four-bed bay Child Nursing Simulation Suite, providing students with a realistic clinical environment with simulation teaching methods to prepare them for an actual hospital. 

Faculty of Health and Applied Science

Remodelling, renovation and fit-out works to the former laundry site, a large, industrial space, to create a modern facility which retains heritage features.

T-Block Refurbishment

Refurbishment of a 400 m2 facility in T block, which will include lab space dedicated to audio visual and robotics research, including large-scale performance and creative exploration space not currently present at the university.


By taking into consideration reuse, whole life costing, energy efficiency, and waste elimination, we shape places and spaces that will remain effective, efficient, and desirable for generations to come. Learn more about our approach to sustainability here.

Get to know Hira a bit better here.

Posted on:

Jan 8th 2024

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