At Studio Hedg, sustainability is at the heart of everything we design. As building regulations evolve to meet environmental and occupant needs, Part O of the Building Regulations emerges as a pivotal measure in achieving healthier, more sustainable living environments.
What is Part O?
Part O focuses on preventing overheating in buildings while optimising solar heat gains. Its primary goal is to enhance occupant comfort by reducing harmful heat levels, but its broader impact lies in encouraging sustainable and energy-efficient design practices.
Two methods for compliance exist:
- Simplified Method – A quick, criteria-based approach.
- Dynamic Thermal Modelling – A detailed, simulation-driven analysis.
By addressing overheating, Part O becomes more than just a regulatory requirement; it is an essential part of designing future-ready buildings that are both comfortable and sustainable.
Why Part O Matters
Improving Comfort: Preventing overheating ensures that homes remain livable and pleasant, even during extreme weather.
Sustainability: By encouraging designs incorporating passive cooling strategies, Part O indirectly reduces reliance on energy-hungry mechanical systems, aligning with broader net-zero energy goals.
Better Building Performance: Overheating regulations push for integrated design approaches, combining energy efficiency, biodiversity, and natural cooling methods into a cohesive strategy.
The Studio Hedg Approach to Sustainable Design
At Studio Hedg, we integrate Part O compliance into our design ethos, blending sustainable strategies with innovative solutions. Here’s how:
1. Holistic Design Approach:
- Thoughtful window placement for optimised natural light and ventilation.
- Energy-efficient insulation, shading, and building orientation to manage solar heat gains.
2. Incorporating Nature:
- Embracing biophilic design through green roofs, vertical gardens, and water features.
- Enhancing biodiversity with landscaping that supports local ecosystems.
3. Passive Cooling Techniques:
- Utilising Passivhaus principles like thermal mass, airtight construction, and strategic ventilation.
- Minimising dependence on mechanical cooling systems for a more sustainable footprint.
4. Well-Being-Centric Design:
- Aligning with Well Building Standards to ensure environments are healthy, comfortable, and connected to nature.
Beyond Compliance – Creating Lasting Impact
Part O is more than a regulation; it’s an opportunity to design spaces that are comfortable, sustainable, and aligned with the future of architecture. At Studio Hedg, we see this as a chance to rethink how we design for people and the planet.
By combining innovative design strategies, energy efficiency, and a commitment to natural elements, we’re shaping buildings that not only meet today’s standards but also set the stage for tomorrow’s possibilities.
Let’s work together to build a sustainable, beautiful future.
