Celebrating our Net Zero Architect of the Year win

Our win demonstrates the holistic approach we take to net zero design, creating efficient, innovative buildings that perform and adapt. From education and healthcare to residential and mixed use innovation districts that blend research, enterprise and flexible workspace, we’re shaping a built environment that supports long-term sustainability and wellbeing. The four projects in our submission embody this approach, each a tangible example of how design excellence, collaboration and technical advancements can drive measurable progress towards net zero, set new benchmarks and deliver enduring value across sectors.

A new standard for energy-efficient, net zero carbon healthcare facilities

At the Countess of Chester Hospital, our new Women and Children’s Unit is the first NHS building in England approved under the Net Zero Carbon Building Standard. Replacing outdated RAAC infrastructure, the design exemplifies how net zero healthcare design can enhance both sustainability and human experience, delivering a high-performing building that supports the wellbeing of patients, their families and staff.

Addressing fuel poverty and enhancing resilience

A town-centre Passivhaus Classic development, 1–21 St Cuthberts, offers 20 all-electric homes for assisted living and over-55s. This project demonstrates how net zero housing can be both affordable and life-enhancing, enabling residents to live safe, healthy and independent lives within the community.

Liverpool City Region’s first net zero carbon workspace

Hemisphere One redefines sustainable workplace design as a pioneering operationally net zero carbon development targeting six global sustainability accreditations, including:

• WELL Platinum
• NABERS 5.5*
• BREEAM Excellent
• EPC A
• WiredScore Certification

Located on the Paddington Village development, adjacent to our WELL Platinum-certified The Spine for the Royal College of Physicians, Hemisphere One embodies the ethos of “bringing the inside out”—supporting the health, social, and cultural wellbeing of both occupants and the public.

Setting a national benchmark for sustainable education design

Showcasing what’s possible in large-scale, low-carbon learning environments, Woodmill and St Columba’s High School is the world’s largest Passivhaus-certified education building.

As a pilot project for the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard and a Scottish Futures Trust Pathfinder project, it delivers exceptional energy performance while prioritising wellbeing, inclusion, and adaptability, helping to shape national guidance for sustainable, high-performing schools.

Across every sector, our approach combines performance-driven design, with strong client collaboration. Our buildings don’t just achieve net zero, they inspire a culture of environmental responsibility and long-term value.

To learn more about our commitment to healthy, low-carbon design, visit our sustainability page here.