In 2007 English Partnerships created a ‘Carbon Challenge’ ideas design competition. The aim was to design a sustainable mixed-use development on the site of the former Hanham Hall Hospital in Bristol. An essential part of the brief was to provide new dwellings that exceed Level 6 of the Code for sustainable homes, and seek a ‘zero carbon footprint’ for operational energy and alongside this to convert Hanham Hall itself into apartments, thereby ensuring the future of this fine Listed building.
Ferguson Mann’s entry was shortlisted with a scheme for 185 dwellings achieving Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
The proposals included district heating systems, on site renewable energy generation, water-saving technologies and natural ventilation principles to reduce the environmental impact of the residents. The housing was carefully orientated to make the most of daylight and passive solar gains whilst avoiding summer overheating.
As the houses were designed, they were carefully integrated with a landscaping strategy that used green infrastructure to provide: biodiverse habitats, reduce the urban heat island effect and made the most of rainfall to keep the urban realm verdant.
