Energy
Our Approach to Energy Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility.
At LBA, we understand the pivotal role architects and designers play in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate our environmental impact and this is demonstrated through the build of our Net Zero Studio in Kinross. Our commitment is to achieve net zero whole-life carbon for both new and retrofitted buildings by 2030, aligning with our pledge as signatories of the Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN).
Our approach is to minimise the embodied and operational energy of our projects, ensuring alignment with our clients’ specifications and budget constraints. We encourage our clients to consider the broader environmental impact of their lifestyle and buildings, advocating for changes that promote harmony between their structures and the natural world. Our goal is to deeply understand our clients’ interests and concerns, uphold the highest professional standards, and deliver outstanding projects with a minimal environmental footprint.
In our pursuit of sustainability, we are committed to reducing the use of harmful chemicals in construction. Wherever feasible, we champion the use of sustainable, ecological materials, steering clear of petrochemicals and materials with high embodied carbon. We promote sustainable resource use and support materials and products that can be recycled, contributing to a circular economy. Our database of materials is continuously reviewed and updated to reflect these priorities.
We design our buildings with the future in minD
By incorporating as much flexibility as possible we can ensure a buildings longevity and sustainable use over time. Beyond the buildings themselves, our landscaping efforts are designed to enhance biodiversity and support local ecosystems. We advocate for the use of local, native plants, natural drainage systems, permeable paving, and the maximisation of green spaces in our developments.
Our vision is deeply rooted in the context of each site, respecting the existing built heritage and its biodiverse character. We aim for an economically sustainable approach to development that welcomes a diverse demographic. Utilising our strong design-oriented skills, we craft a compelling narrative for each site from inception to completion, employing sketching, diagramming, and 3D modelling as tools to explore and refine our designs.
Moreover, LBA have developed an internal toolkit to assess the cultural and social impact of our projects. This toolkit measures various aspects of impact, including how a building integrates with its surroundings and the local community, and its contribution to aspects like connectivity to cycle networks, access to open spaces, shops, and amenities, as well as the security, health, and well-being of its occupants.
Our assessment process is meticulously carried out at every phase of the project, from feasibility through to completion. This thorough evaluation allows us to gauge how effectively we’ve realised the initial aspirations and proposals. The findings from our toolkit are presented in an easily understandable graphic format, enabling our clients to visualise the areas of significant impact and observe any changes that have occurred throughout the design process.
Our policy
1. We are committed to ensuring that all new buildings are constructed to the highest environmental standards possible, significantly reducing both embodied and operational carbon.
2. We strive to diminish the use of petrochemicals and other harmful chemicals in construction by advocating for more sustainable and natural material alternatives.
3. We encourage our clients and contractors to adopt new construction and lifestyle practices to lessen the environmental footprint of our projects and conserve resources.
our expertise
Our team is dedicated to continuously enhancing our design capabilities and technical expertise. With a focus on achieving the ambitious 2030 target, our staff includes Passivhaus accredited professionals, and we are committed to acquiring the necessary qualifications and skills.
To ensure that we can provide our clients with a knowledgeable and efficient service, we regularly conduct internal workshops and training sessions. These initiatives ensure that all team members are well-informed about our policies and understand their roles in making environmentally responsible design decisions.
Our internal procedures and systems are designed to monitor and evaluate the success of our projects from start to finish and post completion. This comprehensive approach not only focuses on climate-related issues but also on the social aspects connected to people and places.
LBA have developed a 2030 Roadmap, a strategic plan that outlines our short, medium, and long-term objectives. This roadmap is our guide towards achieving net zero, helping us navigate the complexities of sustainable design with clear direction and purpose.
