LEADING BY EXAMPLE
We support and extend our clients’ sustainability ambitions by working with them to create resilient buildings and places that are not only low or net zero carbon, but are built to last. And we make sure we practice what we preach — our London studio, All Saints, is both a retrofit and a net zero carbon in operation project.
THE GREENEST BUILDING
ALREADY EXISTS
Our first instinct is always to investigate re-use rather than new build. We support a retrofit approach where possible, and enjoy the challenges and benefits of repurposing existing buildings for new use, especially distinctive heritage buildings. But where this isn’t possible, we make sure we utilise existing materials where possible, and always design for longevity.
WELLNESS-LED
This means creating successful places where people can thrive. We prioritise designing well-considered, healthy environments to live, work and enjoy. We seek to create places that enhance their surroundings, increase biodiversity and sit comfortably within their communities.
MATERIAL SPECIFICATION
EPR’s technical services team advises on material specification including products with low GWP (global warming potential), low ODP (ozone depletion potential), low amounts of VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content and those made with high or completely recycled content.
GREEN TARGETS
Our proven in-house expertise in sustainability enables us to deliver highly energy-efficient, low carbon buildings. We are already designing a number of net zero carbon schemes, and all our projects are guided by sustainability principles from the start, assisted by our network of sustainability champions and our in-house sustainability guide. In this way, sustainability is integrated throughout our design development.
RESEARCH
EPR Architects is a member of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC)’s sustainability group, and is proud to have co-authored two UKGBC reports on delivering net zero carbon buildings. We are a signatory of the Architects Declare Climate and Biodiversity Emergency initiative, and are keen to take an active role in furthering industry research into sustainability.
SOCIAL CHANGE
EPR Architects is also committed to social sustainability. We are dedicated to improving the communities where the practice is based and works, both through our built projects and through our own practice activities. We support staff volunteering and are working with local schools on outreach projects dedicated to widening access to the profession.