Housing Retrofit and the Quest for Airtightness: An Architect’s Guide
by Sean Hill on Aug 14, 2023
What is airtightness? Here, I aim to give you a deeper understanding of what airtightness is, combining theory with the practicalities we’ve encountered working on the many low-energy retrofit and new build projects we’ve completed. Proclima Intello tape uses for airtightness on this …
Unravelling the Heat Pump Enigma: Debunking Misconceptions and Illuminating the Facts
by Sean Hill on Aug 8, 2023
As we work alongside the UK’s net-zero carbon mission, one technology has emerged as instrumental – the heat pump. Yet, misconceptions surround it, impeding its adoption. In this guide, we’ll address and debunk 20 prevailing myths.
The Future of London’s Historic Houses: Revitalising the Old with EnerPHit Refurbishments
by Sean Hill on Jul 27, 2023
Our journey in refurbishing London’s historic homes has led us to embrace the EnerPHit refurbishment strategy. This methodology guides us in revitalising older buildings to meet modern efficiency standards, and crucially, aligns with the government’s ‘2050 net-zero‘ carbon emissions t …
Building an Eco Home: Designing for Sustainability, Comfort and Beauty
by Sean Hill on Jul 10, 2023
Each project we work on teaches us that crafting an energy-efficient, beautiful home, requires an intricate dance of various elements, each resonating with its unique rhythm. At RISE Design Studio, our main focus is woven around the harmonious union of contemporary design, low energy …
Crafting an Oasis within the Urban Jungle: The Art and Intricacies of Backlands Planning
by Sean Hill on Jun 26, 2023
Nestled within the confines of our contemporary urban sprawl lies an opportunity, often overlooked – the realm of the backlands plot. As an architect with two decades of experience leading a boutique, design-focused architecture studio, my journey has led me to deeply appreciate the c …
The Powerhouse Standard – Pioneering Eco Architecture
by Sean Hill on Jun 24, 2023
Throughout my career, my focus has been on creating low-energy and low-embodied carbon designs that contribute to a sustainable future. However, there is one project that stands out among the rest – the Powerhouse initiative.
Planning permission granted in North West London – Red Arch House
by Sean Hill on Jun 23, 2023
We are thrilled to announce that our latest planning application for a new home in North West London has been granted permission by the local planning authority. Red Arch House has been a labour of love for our team, and we’re excited to share the details with you.
The Power of Building Information Modelling (BIM): A Comprehensive Guide for Developers and Homeowners
by Sean Hill on Jun 9, 2023
Welcome to the future of architecture! At RISE Design Studio, a small contemporary design-led architecture firm focused on low energy and low embodied carbon designs, we have embraced the power of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in our practice. With over 20 years of experience, …
MVHR Heat Recovery Ventilation: What is it and how does it work?
by Sean Hill on Jun 9, 2023
As an architect with two decades of experience, I have witnessed the evolution of sustainable design principles and their integration into contemporary architecture. In recent years, the focus has shifted towards low energy consumption and low embodied carbon designs. One crucial elem …
What is EnerPHit? Is it right for my home retrofit project?
by Sean Hill on Jun 2, 2023
As energy efficiency becomes an increasingly important factor in home renovations, many homeowners are looking for ways to improve the performance of their existing properties. This is where EnerPHit, the gold standard for retrofitting, comes into play. Designed by the Passivhaus Inst …