Midlands-based principal contractor Thomas Vale and Architype architects have formalised a joint-venture partnership to deliver combined skills and expertise in the design and build of the internationally established Quality Assurance standard Passivhaus, which is designed to minimise energy consumption whilst optimising the comfort of completed projects for end-users and occupants.

A common myth that 'environmentally-friendly' schools are not cost efficient, the partnership has just completed the UK's first ever Passivhaus standard accredited primary schools for Wolverhampton City Council, at zero additional capital cost to that of traditional construction techniques and the so-called ‘standardised schools’ concepts.

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Whilst the concept and expertise themselves are standard, the construction system allows for affordable project costs, reduced procurement times, energy savings of at least 80%, significantly reduced running costs and most importantly the ability for a learning environment project development team, including Designers, Professionals, Teachers, Governors and Young People, to have a truly bespoke design to ensure that end-user aspirations are realised.

Tony Hyde, Group Managing Director added: "Standardised schools are proving more and more expensive, not only that, they distract away from the learning establishments own identity, the schools values and its visions.

"The design process to deliver a bespoke, environmentally friendly and cost effective solution can only be achieved through the stakeholder's involvement in the design and conceptual phases of a project. Standardised 'off-the-shelf' designs do not give the ability for integration in to a project in order for its full potential to be realised."

The partnership works alongside all members of the team, including pupils, staff, governors and parents to allow them to become fully engaged in shaping the design of their buildings and environment. This, together with ongoing engagement of young people in art projects throughout the construction phases, creates a dynamic and rewarding educational opportunity.

(CD/GK)