Architect, Urban Designer, & Director
In delivering this Passive House accredited, mixed use scheme for Midlothian Council, we have been part of their drive towards achieving net zero carbon by 2030 and have created one of the first affordable housing Passive House projects in Scotland.
The site is strategically located in the middle of a larger recent housing development which was lacking in any services. The new retail unit facing the main road forms a local centre providing much needed essential amenities. This project was one of the first Passive House social housing schemes for Midlothian Council and most of the project team. It required a team effort to work together to learn and upskill in order to deliver these exceptionally low-energy homes.
Pedestrian routes link the civic space in front of the retail unit, bus stop, primary school and large park to the north of the site. Spaces around the buildings have been designed in a sensitive balance between public and private, secured and accessible. Stronger accents of dark brick and gable features are used to highlight the urban presence of the retail building within the development.
All of the homes will benefit from high levels of insulation, exceptional airtightness and on-site renewables, all of which will reduce fuel costs. Mechanical ventilation provides consistent fresh air which ensures high quality indoor air quality and comfort. Residents can enjoy living in high quality new homes which are a stone’s throw from the local shops and from the park.
