Blog - RDA Architects

Architecture connects: Architects Marketing Group trip Mexico City and Oaxaca

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:57:39 GMT

Between History and Innovation: Learning from Mexico City

Richard recently travelled to Mexico City with the Architects Marketing Group for a series of intensive workshops exploring the intersection of marketing and artificial intelligence within architectural practice.

Hosted in Roma, one of the city's most vibrant districts, the visit offered an opportunity to engage not only with emerging ideas around practice and communication, but with the architectural and cultural fabric of Mexico City itself.

A vast and complex metropolis, the city is shaped by its unique geography: sitting on a former lakebed, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. This layered history is reflected in its architecture, where indigenous, colonial, and contemporary influences coexist.

Social Value and Material Reuse

Alongside the workshops, the group visited a number of local practices. A consistent theme across these studios was a strong commitment to social value, with many architects actively engaged in community-led projects, including social housing and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.

One notable example was the transformation of a former ice factory into a working studio by Javier Sánchez Arquitectos. The project demonstrated a considered approach to reuse, embedding circular economy principles while responding sensitively to the local climate. At over 2,000 metres above sea level, Mexico City benefits from relatively stable temperatures, allowing buildings to operate with reduced reliance on mechanical cooling: a fabric-first response to environmental performance.

Other projects reflected similarly inventive responses to urban challenges. Proposals such as cable car infrastructure to alleviate congestion highlighted the scale of th e city’s transport pressures, while offering pragmatic and forward-thinking solutions.

Spatial Composition and Creative Environments

The visit also included a number of significant cultural sites, including Casa Wabi's gallery space, the house of Luis Barragán, and the home of Frida Kahlo. These spaces offered distinct interpretations of live-work environments, demonstrating how architecture can support creativity through light, material, and spatial composition.

Across the city, the quality and accessibility of public space stood out. Institutions such as the National Library provided generous, well-used environments that support both civic life and individual reflection, reinforcing the importance of openness and inclusivity in urban design.

Following the time in Mexico City, Richard travelled briefly to Oaxaca on the Pacific coast. In contrast to the capital, the region offered a markedly different built environment and pace of development.

The coastal settlements are defined by low-rise, lightweight structures that respond directly to the climate and landscape. Materials appear immediate and locally sourced, with a visible absence of large-scale infrastructure or dense urban planning.

Although the visit was shorter and less architecture-focused, it reinforced how context, climate, and culture fundamentally shape the built environment.

Public Architecture and Cultural Narrative

The trip concluded with a visit to the Anthropology Museum, a landmark building defined by its central column and expansive canopy. The architecture plays a central role in shaping the visitor experience, guiding movement through Mexico's history: from indigenous civilisations to Spanish colonisation and earlier migration patterns.

Oaxaca: Climate, Material, and Context

Richard noted it as an exceptional example of public architecture, where scale, materiality, and spatial sequencing work together to create an environment that is both informative and immersive. The depth of content requires careful navigation, and visiting with a guide is recommended to fully appreciate both its historical and architectural significance.

As the visit came to an end, the city was preparing for the upcoming World Cup, with visible investment in infrastructure and development. Ongoing construction at the airport reflected a city in transition, balancing growth with its rich cultural identity.

NLA Coffee conversation: What are the opportunities for housing on constrained sites?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:54:48 GMT

On 25 March, Richard will be speaking at NLA’s Coffee Conversation about how London’s most constrained and overlooked sites can play a role in addressing both the housing crisis and the climate emergency.

Across the city, small and fragmented plots are often dismissed as too difficult to develop. Backland sites, former garages and leftover spaces within established neighbourhoods are frequently overlooked by conventional development models. Yet collectively they represent a significant and largely untapped opportunity.

Developing these sites requires a different approach. They are typically embedded within established communities, surrounded by existing buildings and shaped by tight physical and planning constraints. Unlocking their potential demands careful design thinking, close attention to context and a willingness to engage with complexity.

At the same time, these sites offer clear advantages. They make use of land that is already within the urban fabric, close to infrastructure, transport and local services. Sensitive infill development can increase housing supply without large-scale demolition or major new infrastructure.

Our project Modern Courtyard explores this idea in practice.

The house is built on the footprint of two former garages on an overlooked cul-de-sac site. Rather than seeing the tight constraints as limitations, the design uses them to shape the architecture. Two courtyards organise the plan, bringing daylight deep into the home while creating moments of openness within a compact site.

The result is a contemporary home that demonstrates how small, overlooked plots can be transformed into high-quality living spaces.

Projects like this raise important questions for London’s future. If approached thoughtfully, small sites can make a meaningful contribution to housing delivery while also supporting more sustainable forms of urban growth.

Join the conversation, 25th March, 12:30pm - 13:30pm

Richard will be discussing these ideas at NLA’s Coffee Conversation on 25 March, exploring the opportunities and challenges of delivering housing on constrained sites.

The discussion will consider how these overlooked plots can contribute to London’s housing supply, what design strategies are required to unlock them, and how they might form part of a more sustainable urban future.

Event details:

We will cover:

• The potential of small and overlooked urban sites to contribute to London’s housing supply

• Why backland plots, garages and residual spaces are often dismissed and how they can be unlocked

• Design strategies for working within tight spatial, planning and contextual constraints

• How infill development can reduce urban sprawl and make better use of existing infrastructure

• The role of fabric-first thinking and low-impact design in small-site housing

• Lessons from our projects that transform constrained plots into high-quality homes

As pressure on London’s housing supply continues to grow, it is increasingly important to explore opportunities within the existing urban fabric. Small sites are often overlooked, yet collectively they represent significant potential for delivering new homes in established neighbourhoods.

The session is free to attend and open to all, including architects, designers, planners, developers, local authorities and anyone interested in housing, urban regeneration and the future of London’s built environment.

You can reserve your place here:

https://nla.london/events/nla-coffee-conversation-what-are-the-opportunities-for-housing-on-constrained-sites

It would be wonderful to see you there and continue the conversation around this increasingly relevant topic.

If you are feeling inspired, book a call with Richard in order to discuss your plans for your home!

Passivhaus Trust - The Old Timberyard: Deep Retrofit, Honest Lessons, Lasting Performance

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:08:33 GMT

There is a particular responsibility that comes with working on an existing building. The Old Timberyard , a former Victorian workshop, offered the opportunity to demonstrate how careful retrofit can honour heritage whilst delivering genuine long-term performance.

Behind its retained brickwork and historic fabric sits a carefully executed EnerPHit upgrade. This was not about surface improvements, but a rigorous, fabric-first transformation, reworking a cold, underperforming structure into a comfortable, resilient and low-energy building fit for contemporary use.

From the outset, the project demanded balance and precision. Retaining the character and material honesty of the original workshop. Introducing high levels of insulation while maintaining breathability. Achieving airtightness within an irregular historic envelope. Resolving junctions and sequencing works so that structure, services and finishes aligned seamlessly with performance ambitions.

As with all deep retrofit projects, success lay in the detail. Thermal bridge reduction was carefully modelled and delivered. Airtightness strategies were tested and refined on site. A considered ventilation approach ensures stable internal conditions and long-term durability.

The finished building feels calm and grounded. Deep reveals and carefully articulated junctions express the thickness of the upgraded envelope. Natural materials and high-quality timber elements provide warmth and tactility. The performance measures are not visible, but they are tangible, evident in comfort, air quality and reduced energy demand.

The Old Timberyard reinforces a principle central to our work: conservation and carbon reduction are not in opposition. With a thoughtful, performance-led approach, existing buildings can be retained, adapted and improved, extending their lifespan while meaningfully reducing operational carbon.

Deep retrofit is complex. It requires patience, collaboration and technical rigour. But when delivered carefully, it offers something powerful: buildings that respect their past and perform responsibly for the future.

Join the Webinar, 17th March, 1–2pm

On 17th March, 1–2pm, Richard will be presenting The Old Timberyard as part of the Passivhaus Trust Retrofit Case Study Series webinar.

This session revisits the project following its appearance on Guy Martin’s House Without Bills on Channel 4 and reflects on what delivering deep retrofit in an existing building really involves, beyond the photographs and performance certificates.

We will cover:

• The realities of sequencing a deep retrofit in a historic structure

• Working within structural, spatial and heritage constraints

• Unexpected challenges encountered on site

• Lessons learned and what we would approach differently next time

• Applying EnerPHit principles in a real-world context

• Balancing conservation, comfort and long-term building performance

As retrofit moves further into the mainstream, it is increasingly important that we share honest experience, not just successes but also the complexities and compromises that come with working in existing buildings. Open discussion strengthens the industry and helps refine best practice for future projects.

The session is free to attend and open to all, including architects, designers, contractors, clients, conservation specialists and anyone interested in low-carbon retrofit.

You can reserve your place here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/passivhaus-retrofit-case-study-series-the-old-timberyard-conversion-tickets-1982426132929?aff=odcleoeventsincollection&keep_tld=1

Further information about the Retrofit Case Study Series can be found via the Passivhaus Trust .

It would be wonderful to see you there and continue the conversation around deep retrofit, fabric-first design and delivering meaningful carbon reduction in our existing building stock.

Because the future of sustainable architecture is not just about what we build next, it is about how well we care for what already exists.

If you are feeling inspired, book a call with Richard in order to discuss your plans for your home!

Technical Briefing: Passive House Retrofit and Reuse Webinar

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:36:34 GMT

CPD-certified webinar exploring EnerPHit retrofits, featuring case studies in sustainable design from RDA Architects and Hamptons Architects

Three weeks ago, Heather Faulding and I had the pleasure of presenting at the NLA’s technical briefing on Retrofit and Reuse a CPD-certified webinar on low-energy & high-performance buildings. It was a fantastic session spotlighting some of the most innovative retrofit work.

Heather shared her incredible project for Daily Paper in New York: a powerful example of creative reuse, transforming a crumbling structure using over 7,500 soda cans crafted by local communities. The shimmering façade reflected not only light but the heritage of African beadwork a story of culture and circularity woven into architecture.

I spoke about the Modernist EnerPHit, our deep retrofit of a draughty 1960s home into a warm, efficient, and future-proof family house. This project wasn’t just about reducing energy use, it was about transforming an underperforming building into a space that feels modern, spacious, and comfortable all year round.

We explored several key strategies that helped us achieve this:

· Airtightness & MVHR systems – We dramatically reduced heat loss by improving the building's airtightness, while the mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system ensured a constant supply of fresh air without the energy penalty of traditional ventilation.

· Triple glazing and insulation strategies – Upgrading to triple-glazed windows and wrapping the building in high-performance insulation significantly improved thermal performance, helping the home retain warmth in winter and stay cool in summer.

· Space-maximising interventions – By reconfiguring internal layouts and making considered extensions, we increased the usable space without increasing the building's footprint unnecessarily, proof that good design can make a home feel larger and brighter without resorting to oversized additions.

· Solar roof tiles instead of panels – To maintain the clean lines of the modernist roofscape, we used integrated solar roof tiles rather than surface-mounted panels. This delivered renewable energy while preserving the architectural integrity of the design.

· Challenges and design processes – As with any EnerPHit-level retrofit, we encountered complex coordination challenges, from working with existing structures to achieving Passivhaus-level airtightness. I shared insights into our design thinking, decision-making, and the collaborative process that helped us navigate these hurdles.

This is more than just fabric-first design—it's a roadmap for climate-conscious living that doesn’t compromise on comfort or character. Every detail, from the orientation of glazing to the integration of renewables, was considered through the lens of both performance and aesthetics. It's about creating homes that are future-proof, resilient, and enjoyable to live in. The result is a building that feels good to inhabit and does good for the planet.

Read more about the Modernist EnerPhit project at https://lnkd.in/gEavrfvs

The webinar also marked the beginning of our 4+ Design and Architecture collaboration a new venture bringing together practices across London, New York, and LA: RDA Architects Ltd , F2 Architecture PLLC and Kurt Krueger Architects. From Passivhaus retrofits to adaptive reuse, we’re building a cross-continental dialogue around sustainability, reuse, regenerative and luxurious design.

What To Do Before Approaching An Architect: Project Planning Pack Explained

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:52:21 GMT

Your Guide to Confident Project Planning

We’re excited to share our refined Project Planning Pack, designed to support anyone preparing to embark on a design or building project.

Planning ahead is one of the most important steps in ensuring a successful project . This clear, easy-to-follow resource helps you reduce risk , improve your design outcomes, and gain a better understanding of costs and the architect’s role in the process. It also introduces core design principles and provides tools to assess where you’re at before you begin, giving you confidence in every decision.

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, an experienced developer, or simply exploring ideas for a renovation or new build, this pack is an essential companion for your project journey.

What’s included:

• A structured framework to plan and organise your project

• Guidance on core design principles

• Insights into costs and the architect’s role

• Tools to assess your project readiness

We’ve refined this pack to be practical, user-friendly, and aligned with real-world architectural practice. Our goal is to give you clarity, reduce uncertainty, and make the design process as smooth as possible .

Access the full Project Planning Pack here:

Below is a brief overview of each of the nine sections and how it supports your project planning.

1. Why Work with an Architect?

This section clearly outlines the relationships between the client, architect, main contractor and others. Working with an experienced architect provides structure, clarity, and professional oversight from the very beginning of your project.

Without the right expertise to manage timelines, budgets, and complex decision-making, projects can quickly become costly or stall before they even start. An architect’s coordination helps turn your ideas into achievable, well-planned outcomes, reducing risk and setting your project up for long-term success.

2. The RIBA Plan of Work

Our process aligns closely with the RIBA Plan of Work, a recognised framework that breaks a project down into clear, manageable stages. This approach helps ensure nothing is overlooked, from early concept design through to construction and completion.

See how, by following these stages, you can gain transparency around what happens when, what decisions need to be made, and how your project progresses in a controlled and logical way.

3. Understanding the Construction Cost

Understanding construction costs early on is essential to making informed design decisions. This section explores the different cost options available and explains what can realistically be achieved within your budget. By linking design aspirations to financial realities from the outset, you can avoid unexpected surprises later in the process and focus on solutions that balance quality, ambition, and affordability.

4. Project Cost Breakdown

A clear project cost breakdown helps you understand exactly where your money will go . From construction costs and professional fees to surveys and statutory requirements, this transparency allows you to plan with confidence.

Knowing how costs are distributed across the project helps you prioritise spending, manage expectations, and make adjustments early if needed.

5. What Can We Offer You?

Architects do far more than design buildings. Alongside shaping your dream home or development, we take on a wide range of behind-the-scenes roles that keep your project running smoothly. Find out more about the services we provide to help reduce complications, streamline communication, and ensure your project is delivered successfully, to the highest standard possible.

6. Asking the Right Questions

Choosing the right architect is a crucial decision. Find out what to ask to help ensure a good fit. This section provides guidance on what to consider when appointing an architect, from experience and approach to communication and scope of services. Having a clear plan for this stage helps you build the strongest possible team for your project.

7. Key Principles

Our design process is guided by four key design principles that help shape your ideas into a robust, exciting, and deliverable project. These principles ensure that early concepts allow creativity to flourish, while still being grounded in practicality. By establishing these ideas from the outset, your project is better positioned to move confidently through each stage and reach completion successfully.

8. Creating Your Design Brief

A strong design brief is the foundation of a successful project. Building on our key principles, this section helps you answer important questions about your needs, priorities, and aspirations. Your responses form a clear brief that guides the design process and supports decision-making at later stages, ensuring the final outcome reflects both your vision and practical requirements.

9. How Ready Are You?

Before moving into the design phase, it’s important to understand how prepared you are. This quick readiness test helps you assess whether key elements, such as budget clarity, project goals, and timelines, are in place. By identifying any gaps early, you can move forward with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of your next steps.

Guiding Your Project from Vision to Reality

Planning a design or building project doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right structure, clear information, and thoughtful preparation, it becomes a far more confident and rewarding process. Our Project Planning Pack is designed to give you that foundation, helping you understand the journey ahead, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions at every stage.

Whether you’re just starting out or refining your ideas, this pack gives practical guidance on making decisions with confidence. It helps you understand key stages, clarify priorities, and spot potential challenges early, so you can approach your project with a clear plan and peace of mind.

If you’re ready to start your project with confidence, the Project Planning Pack is the ideal place to begin.

Enduring Design: Multiplying Modular Homes on Brownfield Sites

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:14:09 GMT

What Makes Brownfield Sites Unique?

Across the UK’s cities, thousands of small, disused plots sit idle: the remnants of former garages, workshops, and scrap yards. These brownfield sites, often dismissed as too constrained or contaminated for development, represent an untapped opportunity. Yet within these limits lies enormous potential. When approached with imagination and technical rigour, they can become prototypes for compact, sustainable urban living.

Projects on brownfield sites are unique in their demand for a precise balance between innovation, practicality, and sustainability; ultimately, every square metre counts. And the result can be one of the most rewarding in contemporary housing design.

Our project, Eva’s House , completed in 2005, offers a compelling example. Built on the footprint of two derelict garages in Southeast London, this modest three-storey home demonstrates how a forgotten plot can be transformed into a durable, adaptable dwelling that continues to perform nearly two decades later.

Unlocking the Potential: Eva's House Case Study

The original site measured just 6.5 by 6 metres and was a derelict car scrapyard just large enough to house two vehicles. The site came with all the usual challenges of brownfield development: contaminated ground, a substation to the rear, and limited access to light. Yet through careful planning and inventive design, these constraints became catalysts for innovation.

The brief was clear: create a sustainable, affordable home within a modest £150,000 budget, for a young family of four.

The aim was not only to make best use of the space but to test how small, leftover sites across the city could be unlocked for housing. In doing so, the project became a prototype for how affordable, modular homes might multiply across brownfield land. At the heart of the design was a simple idea: a component-based system that delivers quality, efficiency, and adaptability.

RDA was the first in the UK to use modular construction for a single domestic dwelling, and the results were excellent: assembly was rapid, the superstructure was erected in just three weeks, and the entire construction lasted only six months. The panels were pre-cut, minimising waste, and no structural steel was required beyond the balcony brackets.

Eva’s House was the first residential project in the UK to use TECHAUS structural insulated panels (SIPs) , enabling not only rapid construction but also excellent airtightness. Although Passivhaus certification did not exist in the UK at the time, the house was designed in that spirit: breathable, thermally efficient, and exceptionally low energy.

The result is a compact, energy-efficient house that maximised light, space, and flexibility; three storeys in height and modernist in design. A southwest facing lightwell draws daylight deep into the plan, while a compact footprint and efficient form ensure minimal energy demand.

Two decades later, its performance remains exemplary and recognised. Eva’s House is an Architecture Today Awards 2025 Finalist for buildings that stand the test of time, noted for its remarkably low annual energy demand of 42 kWh/m², minimal maintenance and consistently low running costs.

Modular Thinking and Replicable Systems: For Future Cities

The success of this small home lies in its replicable logic. Prefabricated components allowed for quick assembly, reduced waste, and ensured consistent build quality. Combined with standardised dimensions and a carefully resolved plan, this formed the foundation for an affordable modular housing system that can be multiplied across other brownfield plots, otherwise unused.

The approach demonstrates that sustainable, affordable housing need not rely on large plots or excessive budgets, only on intelligent form and precise execution: unlocking value in forgotten sites across our cities. Nearly two decades on, Evas House continues to perform exceptionally well, proving the durability and long-term advantage of airtight, prefabricated construction.

The principles are straightforward but powerful:

• Compact, adaptable layouts that can evolve with occupants’ needs.
• Insulated panels that create high-performance airtight envelopes with minimal thermal bridging.
• Prefabricated , standardised parts that reduce cost and build time.
• Provision for future upgrades such as solar panels or heat pumps without structural change.

Together, these elements form an affordable component housing system: a replicable model for contemporary urban living and a blueprint for unlocking the potential of brownfield London.

Designing for Longevity

Sustainability is not only about how a building performs today, but how it endures . Two decades later, Eva’s House continues to demonstrate the value of simplicity and foresight, performing exceptionally well. Its structure and finishes have required minimal maintenance (an ode to careful choices regarding robust materials); the entire home, optimised for thermal efficiency, still meets contemporary energy benchmarks.

Inside, the home has adapted seamlessly over time - the internal layout was designed for change. What began as a two-bedroom dwelling with a top-floor living area has become a three-bedroom family house, all without structural alteration. The flexible plan, natural lightwell, and compact footprint continue to support modern living with ease.

Lessons for the Future

If one small project on a 6-metre-wide plot can deliver such longevity and performance, the implications for urban regeneration are significant. Brownfield sites across our cities could host thousands of similar homes, each contributing to sustainable growth while maintaining affordability and quality.

From Eva’s House, many lessons stand out:

Compact form, generous light: Even the smallest sites can feel spacious with well-placed openings and a thoughtful plan.
Thinking beyond the first handover: Materials, layout, and energy systems must all work together to support a building’s long life with minimal intervention.
Fabric first: Energy performance begins with the envelope. Prefabricated panels, airtight detailing, and breathable materials ensure long-term efficiency.
Future ready: Planning for future technologies (e.g. solar, MVHR, heat pumps) means a home can evolve without disruption.

As cities seek to densify sustainably, projects like this one show that quality, affordability and longevity can coexist . These are not just one-off experiments; they are seeds for a scalable future. Multiplying modular, low-energy homes that respond intelligently to their context, we can multiply this success - turning forgotten land into opportunities for resilient design.

In essence, enduring design is about more than longevity; it’s about foresight, adaptability, and the courage to build better with less.

Inspired? Contact us if you have any ideas.

Reflections from the Venice Biennale: Architecture and Dystopian Futures

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:23:45 GMT

Part I: Reflections from the Venice Biennale – Architecture and Dystopian Futures

In September, RDA Director Richard attended the Venice Biennale as part of the AMI (Architects Marketing Institute) Mastermind group, led by Richard Petrie and joined by architects from the UK, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Venice itself, grappling with its own environmental precarity, provided a fitting stage for architectural contemplation. The city heightens awareness: light skips across the water, vaporettos weave through the canals, and conversations spill from pavilions into narrow alleys. It’s a place where architecture feels inseparable from life and culture.

This year’s Biennale carried a distinctly dystopian tone. Many exhibitions directly tackled the climate crisis, social instability, and the legacy of colonialism, compelling architects to rethink their roles in shaping the future. Walking the Giardini and Arsenale, Richard noted a striking tension between urgency and care. Projects addressing social transformation and environmental scarcity stood side-by-side with work celebrating patience, craft, and the value of repair.

Several national pavilions left a lasting impression. The British Pavilion’s candid exploration of empire and colonisation challenged visitors to consider justice within the built environment. The Spanish Pavilion offered a poetic and emotional counterbalance.

Photos of the British Pavilion, the Spanish Pavilion, and various other interesting Pavilions

Across the Biennale, however, it was the quieter installations, that resonated most deeply. Those demonstrating how small, intentional choices (such as reclaimed timber, recycled aggregates, and low-tech construction methods enhanced by digital precision) can collectively drive meaningful change.

As a practice focused on retrofit, RDA found strong parallels here: fabric-first thinking, careful detailing, and the discipline to execute simple things beautifully.

Four reflections emerged from the visit:

Urgency vs. Care – There’s a need to act swiftly on climate, but not at the expense of architectural integrity and craft.
The Power of Reuse – Resourceful, grounded work affirmed RDA’s own belief in the transformative value of retrofit and low-impact design.
The Importance of Thresholds – Details like a step, a shadow line, or a door handle continue to shape how people experience architecture.
Human-Centred Design – Despite theory and technology, architecture must fundamentally serve the people who live, work, and move through it.

The Biennale reinforced a shared ethos: ask harder questions, respond with greater specificity, and always keep the human scale in focus. As Richard left Venice, the message was clear: the future of architecture must be sustainable, grounded in care, and meaningful for those who inhabit the spaces we create.

Part II: Mastermind Workshop in Venice – From Ideas to Practice

Following the Biennale, the AMI Mastermind group gathered for a workshop exploring the future of architectural practice, particularly the impact of AI. With twelve international practices represented, the group found common ground quickly: leading teams, refining marketing strategies, and preserving space for real design thinking.

Richard joined rich discussions about how AI might support rather than replace creativity. The tone was refreshingly open and practical. Participants explored prompt-writing frameworks, ethics, and real workflows where AI can quietly enhance quality, from briefing and concept generation to client visuals and meeting notes.

Photograph from the Architects Marketing Institute workshop and a photograph of Richard presenting to the group at the Antares showroom

Dan’s workshop stood out for its clarity and relevance. Rather than presentations, there were live demonstrations and generous knowledge sharing—tools, strategies, even failures. The atmosphere was one of collaboration, not competition, and an eagerness to explore how new technology can amplify rather than dilute design integrity.

Key takeaways brought back to RDA included:

Clearer intake and onboarding processes
Tighter, more focused design reviews
Sharper communication internally and with clients

If Venice posed the big questions, the Mastermind workshop offered practical answers. Together, they reinforced a shared commitment to architecture that balances judgement, care, and clarity, using technology to protect the time and space needed to do great work.

 Part III: The Dolomites – CastelBrando to Scarpa: Lessons in Scale, Craft, and Meaning

After the intensity of Venice, a journey into the Dolomites offered a dramatic shift in scale and atmosphere. Richard travelled north to CastelBrando, a fortress carved into the mountains, accessed by a funicular that lifts you from valley floor to cliff edge. With its mass and presence, the castle reads like a lesson in siting, strategy, and material expression. Solid where it needs to be, open where it must.

If Venice was about provocation, CastelBrando was about permanence. Its robust materials—stone, lime, and timber, are softened by elegant sequencing: narrow corridors that expand into bright terraces, shaded interiors that open into courtyards. The architecture is grounded yet graceful, a reminder that weight and refinement are not opposites.

Photos from CastelBrando and Richard being interviewed by Dawn Christine for a DesignTalk episode

From CastelBrando, the group moved to the Brion Cemetery, Carlo Scarpa’s masterwork. Here, the monumental gave way to the meticulous. Scarpa’s treatment of water, joints, and materials created a deeply personal and tactile experience. Concrete, brass, and moss come together at the scale of the hand to form a spiritual landscape, one where every detail speaks with intention.

For Richard, the shift from fortress to gravesite illuminated a powerful through-line: architecture is the considered arrangement of forces, whether territorial or intimate. This sensibility—restraint, clarity, and deep material care, echoes RDA’s work in retrofit and Passivhaus. It’s about respecting context, editing with precision, and letting detail carry the emotional and experiential weight.

Photos from the Brion Cemetery

Coda: The Through-Line

From the provocations of the Biennale to the practical strategies of the workshop and the quiet lessons of the Dolomites, a common thread emerged: precision with purpose.

Ask better questions
Use tools to reclaim time for thoughtful design
Build with care, materially, energetically, and ethically
And remember that the moment a door opens, or a shadow falls, is where architecture meets life.

This journey left RDA Architects both challenged and affirmed, committed to designing architecture that’s sustainable, thoughtful, and profoundly human.

How To Upgrade a Grade II Listed Home Without Compromising Its Heritage

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:03:33 GMT

Upgrading a listed home is one of the most rewarding yet challenging projects a homeowner can undertake. Unlike Standard properties, every change must respect strict planning regulations whilst protecting the historic character that makes the building unique. Choices that may seem simple in modern homes such as changing windows, adding insulation, or altering layouts can become complex negotiations between performance, aesthetics and compliance.

The key to success lies in working with conservation architects, skilled craftspeople, and heritage professionals who understand both the technical and regulatory landscape. With their guidance, upgrades can be achieved in ways that not only preserve but often enhance the building's long-term performance and beauty. When done right, a listed home can be both energy-efficient and historically authentic, ready to thrive for future generations.

Start with a Deep Understanding of Your Building's Story

Before putting pen to paper or hammer to plaster, take time to understand the "why" behind your home's design and construction. Every architectural detail in a listed building tells a story, and your role as a custodian is to read that story carefully.

At Egmont View, historic features such as an enclosed timber staircase (salvaged from a ship), lime-based walls, and an original stone hearth shaped every design decision. Similarly, The Pavilion, built in the late 19th century as a summer retreat, was influenced not only by its physical fabric but also by its position within a Grade II listed parkland. This required an approach that was both delicate and imaginative.

Gallows gore Pictured in 2015

Use Materials That Work With The Building Not Against It

Traditional buildings are meant to breathe. Cement renders, synthetic insulation, or modern paints may trap moisture, causing long-term damage.

At Egmont View, breathable systems were prioritised:

A limecrete floor with Leca insulation supported thermal performance whilst allowing moisture to escape
Cement render was removed and replaced with traditional lime plaster.
Collaborations with organisations like the Lime Centre ensured both authenticity and performance.

The Pavilion faced different challenges after years of neglect and fire damage. Its restoration embraced breathable materials and subtle glass extensions that echoed the structure's elegance without competing with it. Kitchen and bathroom functions were relocated into a discreet addition, preserving the historic core whilst enhancing the liveability.

The Pavilion pictured in 2023

Glazing and Windows: A Balancing Act

Windows are among the most scrutinised features in listed homes. Original sash casement windows are rarely replaced outright.

At Egmont View, where double glazing wasn't permitted, custom hardwood windows with laminated glass were crafted. This maintained the home's visual integrity whilst subtly improving performance.
In some contexts, slim-profile double glazing may be possible but only in agreement with the conservation officers and specialist joiners.

Gallows Gore pictured in 2015

Heating and Sustainability: Smart systems, Sensitive Integration

Improving energy efficiency in a listed home is not only possible: it's essential. The challenge lies in achieving it without disturbing the building's core fabric.

Egmont View incorporated:

A Viessmann Air Source Heat Pump
Discreet solar panels
Underfloor heating

All of these were carefully integrated to preserve the original structure. Meanwhile, The pavilion adopted a resource-conscious strategy, balancing cost-effective systems with eco-conscious materials. The result: a home rooted in its past, yet ready for the future.

The Pavilion pictured in 2023

 Planning & Regulatory Navigation: Collaboration Is Crucial

Listed building regulations may seem like hurdles, but they are really frameworks for integrity. Whether it's planning officers, heritage consultants, or conservation engineers, early collaboration sets the tone for success.

At both Egmont View and The Pavilion, proactive communication with the local authorities ensured that modifications were not only permitted, but celebrated as part of the homes' evolving stories.

Two Examples, One Philosophy

While Egmont View and The Pavilion differ greatly in scale and history, they share a common aim: to honour the past whilst making space for the future.

The Pavilion , once nearly lost to fire and neglect, now mirrors the surrounding meadows in its glass conditions. As our client described:

"The mirroring of the meadow and the old house in the glass is stunningly beautiful, utterly contemporary yet meditative and sympathetic to the old parts of the building"

The Pavilion pictured in 2023

Egmont View , by contrast, demonstrates the quiet power of invisible modernisation. Breathable walls, reclaimed materials, and discreet systems combined to improve comfort without altering the building's appearance.

Gallows Gore pictured in 2015

Helping you do it the right way

Upgrading a Grade II listed home is never about imposing modernity. It's about carefully guiding a historic structure into the present with patience, respect and a sense of stewardship.

From our experience, five lessons stand out:

Research everything from materials to historical context.
Preserve original features they are irreplaceable
Choose breathable, sustainable systems to protect long-term health
Collaborate with experts planning officers, consultants, and craftspeople
Balance ambition with humility to your home, has survived centuries; your role is to help it thrive for centuries more.

We specialise in reimagining listed buildings with architectural integrity, environmental sensitivity, and timeless design. If you're considering a restoration, let's ensure it's done right and beautifully

Click the button below in order to get in touch to start your restoration journey.

How working with a qualified architect can save you stress, money and regret

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:01:25 GMT

Thinking about renovating your home? Don’t do it alone. We will be explaining how working with an architect rather than just a construction team alone can help you save potential future costs to your project.

A big renovation can be exciting, but overwhelming. Costs can spiral, timelines shift and without the right advice, costly mistakes can sneak in. This is where we come in.

What is a RIBA Chartered Architect?

At RDA Architects, we are RIBA Chartered Architects. RIBA (the Royal Institute of British Architects) is the UK's professional body for architects, setting the gold standard for architectural practice. This means when you work with RDA, you're partnering with professionals who have proven their expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in architecture. But more importantly, we help homeowners like you get the most out of your budget and avoid the kind of problems that can turn a dream project into a nightmare.

As shown in the diagram below, RDA (the architect) plays a central role in your project, acting as the hub for information exchange and coordination between the client, design team, and contractor team. We work closely with the specialists, engineers, and contractors to develop and communicate the design, ensuring your vision is realised efficiently and within budget, while helping you avoid the common pitfalls that can derail a project.

Case study: Connected House – RDA Architects

Smart Design That Changed Everything

For our Connected House project, we worked with a family who weren’t sure if hiring a RIBA Chartered Architect was necessary or worth the cost. But once we got involved, things changed quickly.

We redesigned their home layout to bring in more natural light and improve how the space flowed from room to room. By excavating the garden level and opening up the rear of the home, we connected the inside with the outdoor space, transforming an awkward slope and dated extension into bright, usable living areas.

On top of that, we suggested energy-saving upgrades, such as better insulation, triple glazing, and airtight construction, which drastically cut their energy use. With renewable systems like solar tiles, an air-source heat pump, and battery storage in place, their home now runs on 100% renewable energy, has slashed its carbon emissions by 92%, and costs next to nothing to run now.

These smart decisions weren’t about making things look fancier, they were about designing a home that truly works better for the people living in it.

Cost vs Value: Spend smarter, not just more

As part of the same Connected House renovation, we took a closer look at their kitchen plans. The family originally wanted to keep costs low with basic materials and fittings. But we showed them how investing slightly more in key areas, like energy-efficient appliances and higher-quality finishes, would actually save them money in the long run.

We also introduced natural, bio-based materials like cellulose insulation and low-VOC finishes, which are used to improve indoor air quality and overall health. With durable materials and careful detailing, their kitchen is now built to last, with fewer future repairs to worry about.

The end result? A beautiful, efficient kitchen that feels great to live in and adds long-term value to their home.

We identify problems before they cost you

One of the biggest ways we add value is by spotting problems early, before they become expensive. During the Connected House project, the family planned a large extension. In our initial checks, we discovered structural issues that could have cost them thousands if they’d gone unnoticed.

By acting early, they avoided major delays and serious extra costs. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding, we proposed a retrofit approach that not only avoided the heavy expense but also kept the home’s structure intact and improved its energy efficiency.

It’s a great example of how early design input and smart thinking can prevent expensive mistakes and deliver a home that’s stronger, greener, and more future-proof.

Why it pays to have a professional on your side

Here’s what you really get when you work with a RIBA Chartered Architect like us:

• Smart design that improves how your home works

• Honest advice on where to spend (and where to save)

• Help navigating local rules and planning approvals

• A focus on energy efficiency and long-term value

• Peace of mind knowing someone is looking out for your best interest

Let’s bring your renovation vision to life

Renovating your home is a big step, and it should feel exciting, not stressful. When you work with RDA Architects, you’re not just getting design ideas, you’re getting a clear plan, expert guidance, and someone who’s thinking three steps ahead so that your project can run smoothly.

Let’s create a home you’ll love to live in, and be proud to call your own.

Airtightness at home: How it can save you energy and money

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:48:54 GMT

How Two London Homes Achieved Exceptional Energy Efficiency Through Strategic Airtightness Solutions

Imagine your home as a high-quality flask. When sealed properly, it keeps your drink at the perfect temperature for hours. Airtightness in buildings works similarly: it's about creating a continuous, sealed envelope around your home that prevents unwanted air from leaking in or out. Think of all the tiny gaps around windows, doors, or where pipes enter your house. These seemingly insignificant spaces can add up to the equivalent of leaving a window open all year round.

In today's world of rising energy costs, where the average London home loses £400-£500 annually through air leakage alone, airtightness has become increasingly crucial. At RDA Architects, with over 25 years of experience in sustainable home design, we've seen how proper airtightness transforms living spaces, offering benefits that go far beyond energy savings:

Enhanced temperature control: No more cold spots or drafts
Significantly reduced noise pollution from outside
Better air quality through controlled ventilation
Protection against moisture issues and mould
Reduced dust and allergen infiltration
Lower heating and cooling costs (typically 70-90% reduction)

Passive Mews II: A Modern Marvel of Efficiency

Designed on a limited budget in 2017, our Passive Mews II project showcases how exceptional design can elevate living standards while maintaining sustainability. Our client, seeking to downsize from a Georgian townhouse, approached RDA to leverage our Passivhaus expertise. The result was a three-bedroom certified Passivhaus, built for £350,000, featuring a concealed solar-powered hydrotherapy pool.

Achieving Passivhaus certification required adherence to principles that harness solar energy, super insulation, airtightness, and a ventilation system to create a healthy, comfortable, low-energy building. The home consumes around 90% less energy than a typical build, thanks to:

Highly insulated structural panels wrapped in additional insulation
Triple glazed windows and doors
A mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system

The design respects the industrial service nature of the mews lane, with elevations combining brick and steel softened by red cedar detailing. Light floods every room, enhancing the internal spaces and creating a sense of luxury. The outdoor amenities include a rear courtyard and a first-floor terrace, with a timber deck that slides open to reveal a compact swimming pool, its energy consumption offset by photovoltaic panels.

Modernist EnerPHit Retrofit: A Testament to Possibility

Our Modernist EnerPHit project, recently shortlisted for the Architects' Journal Retrofit and Reuse Awards 2024, showcases how modern homes can be transformed through airtightness. The original house was losing heat at an alarming rate, with energy bills exceeding £3,500 annually.

Our approach included:

Advanced thermal imaging to identify air leakage points
Implementation of state of the art sealing techniques
Installation of a smart ventilation system that recovers 95% of heat

Post-retrofit measurements showed remarkable improvements:

Energy consumption reduced by 85%
Energy bills reduced to approximately £500 annually
Indoor air quality improved with CO2 levels consistently below 800ppm (parts per million)
Temperature fluctuations reduced to less than 0.5°C throughout the day
Ambient noise levels decreased by 42 decibels

Dispelling Common Myths

A frequent concern we hear is that "buildings need to breathe". This misunderstanding confuses air leakage with ventilation. In an airtight home, fresh air is provided through controlled ventilation systems that:

Filter out pollutants and pollen
Recover heat from outgoing air
Maintain optimal humidity levels
Provide consistent fresh air without drafts

Modern airtightness solutions are incredibly durable and, contrary to popular belief, require minimal maintenance. Our projects demonstrate that airtightness and luxury living work hand in hand, creating homes that are not just energy-efficient but offer superior comfort and wellbeing.

The Path Forward

The success of these projects demonstrates that exceptional airtightness is achievable in any home, whether it's a period property or a modern dwelling. Independent studies show that airtight homes command a 15-20% premium on resale value, making it a sound investment for the future.

At RDA Architects, we've seen first-hand how attention to airtightness transforms not just the energy efficiency of homes, but the entire living experience. Our clients often tell us they wish they had done it sooner, particularly noting:

The unexpected silence and peace in their homes
The elimination of drafts and cold spots
Consistently perfect temperatures year-round
Significantly reduced dust and cleaning requirements
Lower maintenance costs over time

Ready to explore how airtightness could transform your home? We invite you to schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your project and discover the possibilities of Passivhaus design.

Portfolio Tips to Help You Get Hired: A Guide for Part 1 & Part 2 Architecture Students

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 15:53:40 GMT

Portfolio Tips to Help You Get Hired: A Guide for Part 1 & Part 2 Architecture Students

Behind the Scenes: RDA x Sana Open Studio

Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of opening our studio doors for a collaborative event with Sana Tabassum- architect, educator, and founder of :scale, a platform that champions emerging voices in architecture. The evening brought together students, graduates, and early-career designers for an inspiring session of portfolio reviews, career chats, and honest conversations about what it really means to navigate the world of architecture today.

The studio was alive with creative energy as attendees engaged in one-on-one critiques, informal Q&As, and discussions that ranged from practical job hunting tips to big-picture reflections on the future of design. Sana shared her expertise on building a personal brand, curating meaningful portfolios, and using digital platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to grow your reach and professional network.

What stood out most was the sense of community, an affirmation that spaces like these, where emerging architects can share, reflect, and ask questions, are more essential than ever.

Portfolio Tips to Help You Get Hired: A Guide for Part 1 & Part 2 Architecture Students

Whether you’re gearing up for your first internship or applying for your Part 2 placement, your portfolio is your most powerful calling card. More than a showcase of work, it's a tool to communicate your thinking, values, and potential as a designer. Here are our top tips to help you stand out:

1. Curate with Intent

Think of your portfolio as a well-edited story, not a scrapbook. Choose 4–6 projects that demonstrate a balance of conceptual thinking, technical strength, and originality. Tailor your selection to each firm you apply to—research what they do and mirror that focus.

2. Structure a Narrative

Lead with impact. Start strong with a compelling project and organise the rest to show progression and breadth. Introduce yourself with a short statement about your design philosophy, and end with a clean, concise CV and contact details.

3. Show Your Working

Sketches, models, and iterations matter. They tell us how you think. Don’t just show the polished final outcome—let your process speak.

4. Keep Your Layout Clean

A clear, professional presentation allows your work to shine. Use consistent fonts, generous white space, and a layout that supports rather than distracts. Adobe InDesign is a great tool for crafting visually cohesive documents.

5. Tailor Every Time

No two studios are the same—your portfolio shouldn't be either. Highlight the projects and skills that resonate with the firm you’re applying to. Personalisation shows commitment and attention to detail.

6. Edit Ruthlessly

Aim for 10–15 pages. Be selective. Less is often more when your work is strong and presented with purpose.

7. Go Digital

Complement your PDF portfolio with a digital presence. A simple Behance profile or personal site can make it easier for employers to find you—and it shows you’re comfortable in today’s digital-first world.

Final Thoughts

Your portfolio is more than a formality: it’s your voice in a competitive field. Treat it as a living document that evolves with your experience. Keep refining it, seek out feedback, and stay curious about what’s happening across the profession.

If you missed this open studio, don’t worry—there’s more to come. We’re planning further workshops and events designed to support your growth, whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up.

In the meantime, check out Sana’s Unpacking the Architecture Portfolio blog post on :scale for more insight and inspiration.

We’re here to help you grow, get noticed, and get hired.

RDA & London Festival of Architecture : Conversations on Sustainable Living

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Thu, 08 May 2025 16:13:50 GMT

Conversations on Sustainable Living: Join Us for a Guided Walk Through East Dulwich During LFA 2025

RDA Architects is proud to be participating in the London Festival of Architecture (LFA) 2025, with a specially curated event designed to spark dialogue around sustainable design and future-facing housing. As part of this year’s festival, we are hosting “Conversations on Sustainable Living: A Guided Walk Through East Dulwich,” offering the public a rare chance to explore the principles of Passivhaus architecture in real-world residential settings.

You can now book your free place via Eventbrite:

Conversations on Sustainable Living – Guided Walk Through East Dulwich

About the London Festival of Architecture 2025

The London Festival of Architecture is Europe’s largest annual festival of architecture, with hundreds of events that bring together architects, communities, and the public. The 2025 theme, “Voices,” asks how we listen, who gets heard, and how design can empower underrepresented perspectives—whether social, cultural, environmental, or spatial.

This theme is especially resonant for us at RDA Architects, where we believe sustainable design isn’t just about energy efficiency—it’s about creating spaces that reflect and respond to the needs of the people who live in them.

Explore the full festival programme:

London Festival of Architecture 202

Our Event: Conversations on Sustainable Living

As part of LFA 2025, RDA Architects invites you to join Director Richard Dudzicki for a guided walk through East Dulwich to explore a series of homes designed to the Passivhaus standard . This event is more than a tour—it’s a conversation about the future of sustainable architecture, how design responds to climate, and how our homes can give voice to a better, more equitable built environment.

Participants will:

Walk through East Dulwich to see Passivhaus homes designed by RDA
Learn about energy-efficient building principles in practice
Engage in open discussion with a leading sustainable architect
Experience how low-carbon architecture can integrate with local communities

Event Details

Dates :

Tuesday 10 June 2025
Wednesday 11 June 2025

Cost : Free of charge
Booking required :
Reserve your free slot on Eventbrite

Walk 1 – Scenic & Informative (Approx. 2 hours)

Start : Sydenham Hill Station, Car Park – 9:00 AM
Route : A scenic walk through the Dulwich Estate to East Dulwich
Focus : Deeper exploration of Passivhaus principles and contextual design

Walk 2 – Shorter & More Accessible (Approx. 1–1.5 hours)

Start : Denmark Hill Station
Route : A relaxed pace through local neighbourhoods, ideal for broader access
Focus : Accessible insights into sustainable housing and community context

Why Passivhaus?

Passivhaus is an internationally recognised standard for energy-efficient buildings that dramatically reduce energy use while enhancing comfort and air quality. At RDA Architects, we view Passivhaus not just as a technical solution, but as a platform for responsible, future-oriented design that considers both people and the planet.

Our LFA 2025 event is a way to give voice to these values—and to invite you into that conversation.

Read about PassivHaus

Join the Conversation

In the spirit of this year’s theme, “Voices,” we believe that architecture should not only speak—it should listen. We hope you’ll join us in June to explore how thoughtful, sustainable design can contribute to a more inclusive, liveable, and resilient future.

Reserve your free place now :
Book via Eventbrite

Learn more about the London Festival of Architecture 2025 :
Visit the LFA website

Understanding Your Procurement Options

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:01:39 GMT

Understanding Your Procurement Options

Finding the Right Path for Your Project

At RDA Architects, we understand that no two projects are the same—each client brings a unique vision, set of priorities, and practical considerations. One of the most important early decisions in delivering a successful project is selecting the right procurement route.

Whether you're building from scratch, transforming an existing home, or undertaking a detailed retrofit, the procurement method you choose will shape everything from cost and timelines to quality and creative control. Here’s a breakdown of the three most common approaches, along with our perspective on which may work best for your project.

1. Design & Build Contractor

A Contractor-Led Process

Design & Build can seem like the most straightforward route—one team takes on both the design and construction phases, often delivering a complete, ready-to-use outcome. It can simplify project delivery by consolidating responsibility with a single contractor.

While this approach suits some commercial or straightforward new-build developments, it often lacks the nuance and flexibility required for more bespoke residential projects. Without a clearly defined specification, there’s a risk that cost-cutting may affect the quality of materials, detailing, or overall architectural intent. For clients who value design-led outcomes and careful material selection, this method can feel restrictive.

2. Competitive Tender with Full Specification

The Traditional Architect-Led Model

This route offers full transparency and design control. As architects, we produce a complete set of drawings, technical details, and specifications, which are then priced competitively by a shortlist of trusted contractors.

It’s a robust and structured process that ensures like-for-like comparisons and helps secure best value. With architectural oversight retained throughout, we can safeguard design quality and hold the contractor accountable to a clearly defined vision.

That said, this route does require more upfront investment—in both time and professional input. Preparing the tender package, receiving bids, and reviewing options can take several months. While ideal for high-value or more complex schemes, it may be more than is needed for simpler projects.

3. Negotiated Tender with a Preferred Contractor

Flexible, Collaborative, and Often the Best of Both Worlds

Our recommended route for many of our clients—particularly those pursuing bespoke, high-quality outcomes—is the negotiated tender. This involves engaging a preferred contractor early, then working in collaboration with them through the design and costing stages.

Rather than producing a full tender pack upfront, we create a clear Employer’s Requirements document outlining design priorities, material palettes, and quality expectations. This offers clarity and alignment without slowing down the process.

By involving the contractor at an earlier stage, we can identify cost implications and practical challenges upfront, refine the design accordingly, and avoid surprises later. It’s an approach that supports flexibility, fosters trust, and can result in better cost certainty and a faster route to site.

A formal contract—usually JCT or RIBA—would still be in place to define responsibilities and protect your interests throughout.

Next Steps

Given the bespoke nature of your project and your ambition for a high-quality, well-managed result, we believe a negotiated tender route with a carefully chosen contractor would provide the right balance of control, creativity, and efficiency.

We’d be happy to arrange a meeting at our studio to talk through your project in more detail. During that session, we can:

• Review the planning approval and explore design opportunities.

• Outline how we’ll guide you through each project stage—from concept to completion.

• Discuss the level of involvement that suits your needs, whether full-service or advisory.

• Recommend contractors with the right experience and ethos for your vision.

At RDA, we pride ourselves on delivering homes that reflect both our clients' aspirations and a commitment to lasting quality. Choosing the right procurement route is the first step in that journey.

Our 5 phase approach to designing your dream home - explained!

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:37:18 GMT

Ever wondered how it works before approaching an architectural practice?

At RDA Architects, we understand that designing your dream home is a deeply personal and transformative experience. Our 5-step approach has been crafted to guide you seamlessly through each stage, ensuring clarity, confidence, and an enjoyable journey from start to finish.

We explain our approach in detail because we know that taking on a project as significant as this can feel overwhelming. By breaking the initial process down into clear, manageable steps, we give you full visibility, so you always know what to expect. This transparency helps build trust and empowers you to make informed decisions every step of the way.

At RDA, you'll have 1-on-1 attention.

So how does it work?

Our approach is tailored to prioritise your vision, needs, and sustainability goals, ensuring that the space we create is not only functional but truly reflective of who you are. By outlining this method upfront, we aim to make the entire experience as smooth, transparent, and stress-free as possible—carefully planning each step to bring your dream home to life.

From helping you to navigate through tricky planning permissions or estate constraints to envisioning your new home with site visits, 3D visualisations, and models, our award-winning architects and designers are here to ensure your design experience is enjoyable, memorable, and personal. As creative problem-solvers, we aim to achieve everything you want—and more.

Unlike many practices, RDA integrates your sustainability needs from RIBA Stage 0. This means that from embodied carbon to air tightness, we consider every detail from the very beginning—ensuring nothing is overlooked. Addressing sustainability at a later stage often means that vital elements are left out, and your project may fail to meet real sustainability goals.

With over 25 years of experience, we’ve learned that the designing to building process can be incredibly complex. Many projects go off track—leading to cost overruns and missed deadlines—simply because the client's needs and priorities weren’t fully understood or respected.

At RDA, you’ll receive personalised, one-on-one attention throughout the process. Even on smaller projects, the number of moving parts can quickly become overwhelming. But this is exactly where we excel.

Our expertise, experience, and problem-solving skills mean we can identify and resolve potential issues well before they become significant problems. While some architects and contractors may cut corners to simplify the process, we embrace the complexity. We dig deep into the details, ensuring clarity at every step. Our focus is always on listening to you, understanding your vision, and mapping out a precise plan to achieve the best possible outcome.

Here, we explain each step in detail:

Designing your dream home is a journey that can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with RDA Architects by your side, we make the process seamless and enjoyable. From the initial consultation with Richard Dudzicki, our founder and lead architect, to finalising your home designs and overseeing the construction phase, we’re dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Our five-phase approach is crafted to ensure clarity, transparency, and success, with a focus on your vision, needs, and sustainability goals.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards building your dream home, we’d love to collaborate with you. Our expertise, experience, and passion for great design will help you achieve the home you've always dreamed of. Let’s start the conversation today— book a free 30-minute consultation with Richard and begin your journey to a beautifully designed, sustainable home.

Exciting News! Connected House Shortlisted for RIBA London Awards 2025

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:35:18 GMT

Connected House Shortlisted for RIBA London Awards 2025!

We’re delighted to share that The Connected House has been shortlisted for the RIBA London Awards 2024—a recognition that celebrates architectural excellence and innovation.

Nestled in the heart of The Dulwich Estate’s conservation area, The Connected House is a prime example of how cutting-edge sustainability and technological integration can breathe new life into a mid-century home. Originally designed by Austin Vernon & Partners in the early 1960s, this home stood as a relic of its time—boasting incredible views of London’s skyline but suffering from decades of substandard modifications.

The Connected House is a testament to this philosophy, balancing sustainability, functionality, and elegance in equal measure.

This project embodies RDA’s ethos of thoughtful, context-driven design, transforming a dated property into a high-performance, sustainable haven. Through a sensitive yet bold retrofit approach, The Connected House enhances both the quality of living and the building’s environmental performance, ensuring longevity while respecting its past.

But The Connected House is more than just a beautifully renovated 1960s Dulwich Estate home. It’s a vision for the future—one where sustainability , smart technology , and thoughtful design come together to create homes that are not only energy-efficient but also connected in every sense of the word.

By retrofitting rather than rebuilding, this home stands as a testament to the potential of sustainable transformation. It demonstrates that even within the strictest of conservation areas, a home can be brought up to modern sustainability standards without sacrificing its charm or character.

For Michael, Talia, and their two young sons, this home now serves as an energy - efficient , comfortable sanctuary—a place where every space is connected to the breathtaking views beyond and where the house itself is connected to a more sustainable future .

At RDA Architects, we see retrofit as a powerful tool for sustainable design—breathing new life into existing structures rather than starting from scratch.

We’re honored to see this project recognised by RIBA and look forward to the next stage of the awards. Congratulations to our team, collaborators, and clients who helped bring this vision to life!

To learn more about The Connected House, head here.

Celebrating 25 Years of RDA Architects: Richard's interview with the NLA

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 09:52:34 GMT

Richard Dudzicki, recently sat down with New London Architecture to discuss 25 years of RDA Architects, innovative home design, and the journey of creating sustainable, adaptable spaces.

Richard caught up with David Taylor, the editor of the New London Quarterly and New London Weekly covering the following topics:

Celebrating 25 Years of RDA Architects

At RDA Architects, we’ve always pushed the boundaries of home design, sustainability, and innovation. As we mark 25 years in business, Richard Dudzicki, our founder and a leading Passivhaus specialist, sat down with David Taylor to reflect on our journey, the future of home design, and some unexpected work environments.

A Journey Through 25 Years of Architecture

Since founding RDA, Richard has been dedicated to creating energy-efficient, forward-thinking homes. As one of the UK’s early adopters of Passivhaus design, RDA has championed sustainability long before it became an industry buzzword. Over the years, our team has tackled everything from ultra-modern city homes to cutting-edge eco-living spaces, constantly reimagining how people live and interact with their environment.

Passivhaus: The Future of Home Design

During the interview, Richard emphasized the importance of Passivhaus principles—airtight construction, high-quality insulation, and energy efficiency. With increasing energy costs and a growing awareness of our environmental impact, designing homes that work with nature rather than against it is more crucial than ever.

Cycling, Creativity, and… Working in an Oven?

Beyond architecture, Richard is an avid cyclist, often finding inspiration while on two wheels. He believes that cycling allows for a fresh perspective—something that has undoubtedly influenced his creative approach over the years.

And as for working inside an oven? Richard recalled a design that involved transforming a former Victorian bakery into a stunning RDA office space. The experience of standing in an old brick oven, envisioning how it could become a comfortable office space, perfectly encapsulates RDA’s philosophy: seeing potential where others see limitations.

Looking Ahead

As RDA Architects moves into its next chapter, our focus remains the same—creating homes that are not just beautiful but also sustainable, efficient, and built for the future. With ongoing projects that continue to push the limits of design and construction, we’re excited for what’s to come.

Head to the NLA website to read the full interview with Richard Dudzicki here .

Keeping Warm with PassivHaus Design: Richard's Insights

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:52:48 GMT

As the founder of one of the UK’s leading PassivHaus design firms, with chilly weather on the horizon we're here to explain how living in a Passivhaus, or low-energy home can keep your home warm throughout the winter, all while reducing your heating bills.

Richard Dudzicki, Director RDA Architecture & Interiors

When it comes to staying warm in winter without draining energy or your wallet, PassivHaus design is a game-changer. At RDA Architecture, we’re passionate about creating homes that are as warm as they are efficient, blending advanced technology with thoughtful design to achieve unparalleled comfort. Let me explain how it all works, and why this approach might be just what your home needs.

Airtight But Breathable

One of the first things people notice about a Passivhaus is the remarkable consistency of indoor temperatures. This starts with airtight construction. By meticulously sealing every nook and cranny, we prevent unwanted cold air from sneaking in and precious heat from slipping out. Think of it like a snug winter coat for your home. But airtight doesn’t mean stuffy - a mechanical ventilation system (MVHR) ensures a constant supply of fresh air while recycling up to 90% of the heat from the outgoing air.

The MVHR system and Koo ltherm premium performance insulation

Insulation that Works Overtime

Insulation in a Passivhaus is no ordinary job. We’re talking superinsulation—layers upon layers of high-performance materials that wrap your home like a thermal blanket. This isn’t just in the walls; it’s under your floors and in the roof too. By eliminating thermal bridges (those pesky spots where heat loves to escape), we lock warmth inside where it belongs.

Windows That Earn Their Keep

Now, let’s talk about windows. They’re often the weakest link in traditional homes, but not in a Passivhaus. Here, we use triple-glazed windows with insulated frames. These not only block heat loss but invite sunlight in to naturally warm your space—a strategy we call passive solar gain. The placement of these windows is just as important. We carefully orient homes to maximize sunlight in winter, ensuring your home stays bright and toasty.

At Connected House, triple-glazed sliding doors and skylight windows make the most of solar gain, but prevent heat escaping.

Less Heating, More Living

Here’s the kicker: a properly designed Passivhaus needs minimal additional heating. The warmth generated from your everyday activities—cooking dinner, a hot shower, or even just you and your family going about your day—is often enough to keep things comfortable. For colder climates or those really icy days, a small heating system may be added, but its workload is minimal compared to a conventional home.

By installing solar panels, or super discreet solar tiles as seen below, these can reduce your energy costs even further by providing your own, sustainably sourced energy to be used as needed. At Connected House , solar tiles supply the full electricity needs for the house, which works so efficiently that our client is even able to sell back excess energy to the grid. They've seen their annual running costs go down from £3,500 to under £700, for a large, three-bedroom family home.

At Connected House, GB Solus solar tiles blend in subtly and provide electricity to power the house year round.

Sustainable Comfort

Beyond keeping you warm, PassivHaus design is about doing more with less. Less energy wasted means lower bills and a lighter carbon footprint. It’s a way to live comfortably while caring for the environment—a win-win in my book.

If you’re looking for a home that keeps you warm, cuts energy use, and provides a healthier living environment, a Passivhaus might be your answer. At RDA Architecture, we’ve been working on, and refining our skills in Passivhaus projects, and I’d be delighted to share my experiences and ideas with you.

To find out more about RDA’s extensive PassivHaus experience, and to explore the beautiful homes we’ve built and retrofitted over the last twenty-five years, click here !

Or, book in a free consultation with our award-winning PassivHaus certified designer and Director, Richard Dudzicki below.

FAQs about Passivhaus

The Connected House Retrofit: From Mid-Century to Futuristic Family home

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 15:58:16 GMT

Welcome to Connected House, a once drafty and aging home to a sustainable, smart retrofit for the modern family.

Nestled in the heart of The Dulwich Estate’s conservation area, Connected House is a prime example of how cutting-edge sustainability and technological integration can breathe new life into a mid-century home. Originally designed by Austin Vernon & Partners in the early 1960s, this home stood as a relic of its time, boasting incredible views of London’s skyline but suffering from decades of substandard modifications. Our vision was to transform it into a high-performance, energy-efficient sanctuary that balances modern living with environmental stewardship—all while retaining the character and history of the original design.

The Challenge

When our clients, Michael, a programmer, and Talia, a lawyer, bought the house, they were captivated by its hillside position offering sweeping views from the City to Canary Wharf and even Wembley Arch. However, the layout of the home had become disjointed, a product of a past poorly designed extension. It was poorly insulated rear extension with limited natural light and failed to maximize the home’s best feature: its stunning panoramic views.

Furthermore, the house lacked energy efficiency, a common issue in properties from its era. Heating the space was expensive, and the home’s environmental impact was far from meeting modern sustainability expectations.

Our combined goal was to reinvent Connected House as a harmonious blend of sustainability and smart technology, with a layout that enhances the family’s day-to-day living experience while reconnecting the home to its surroundings.

Our approach focused on making Connected House a high-performance home that minimized energy consumption and environmental impact. From structural improvements to smart technology, every detail was carefully crafted to achieve a balance between comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Loft Conversion and Reconfiguration : To optimize the home’s layout and capitalize on the breathtaking views, we added a loft conversion that brought light and space into the house. This allowed for a seamless flow between spaces, connecting the interior to the surrounding woodlands and cityscape.

Upgraded Building Fabric : We preserved the original structure, avoiding demolition to align with our sustainable design ethos. Instead, we dramatically improved the building's energy performance. The new airtight and insulated roof, made with state-of-the-art materials like Siga tape, significantly reduced heat loss and improved thermal comfort.

Triple-Glazed Windows and Solar Shading : All windows were replaced with high-performance triple glazing, which, along with carefully designed solar shading, minimized heat loss in winter and prevented overheating in summer. The result? A more comfortable and energy-efficient home, year-round.

Innovative Solar Energy Solutions : Working within the conservation area’s restrictions, we installed solar slates instead of traditional panels. These slates blended seamlessly with the house’s original design while generating around 15kW of renewable energy—enough to power the home and store energy in advanced battery systems for peak efficiency.

One of the most impressive features of Connected House is its sophisticated integration of smart home technology. With Michael’s expertise as a programmer, we developed a unified control system that brought together all the home’s cutting-edge systems—underfloor heating, MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery), heat pump, and even electronically controlled blinds.

This custom system transformed the house into a truly connected home, where every system works together to enhance comfort and energy efficiency. Whether it’s optimizing heating during colder months or ensuring fresh, filtered air circulates throughout the day, the house operates like a well-oiled machine, reducing energy consumption and making daily living easier. Even the roof is working to contribute, as we installed solar tiles (rather than solar panels) that power the home, and stores excess energy in batteries for later use.

The landscaping of Connected House was re-imagined as an extension of the living space. Working with landscape architect James Aldridge, we regraded the rear garden to create a smooth transition from indoors to outdoors. The result is a peaceful, functional garden that enhances the house’s connection to its stunning natural surroundings. Every window acts as a frame to the gently swaying indigenous plants that blend seamlessly in with the surrounding nature reserve. The garden is entirely integral to the design of the home, and provides a soothing balm to the sharp interior lines inside. Even the soundtrack of the home is provided by the garden - biophillic design encourages more local birds and creatures in, which in turns creates a wonderful backdrop to daily life.

Connected House is more than just a beautifully renovated 1960s estate home. It’s a vision for the future—one where sustainability, smart technology, and thoughtful design come together to create homes that are not only energy-efficient but also connected in every sense of the word.

By transforming a dated property into a high-performance, sustainable haven, Connected House stands as a testament to the potential of retrofitting for the future. It shows that even within the strictest of conservation areas, a home can be brought up to modern sustainability standards without sacrificing its charm or character.

For Michael, Talia, and their two young sons, this home now serves as an energy-efficient, comfortable sanctuary—a place where every space is connected to the breathtaking views beyond and where the house itself is connected to a more sustainable future.

Two RDA Projects Shortlisted for Awards

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:45:14 GMT

This Summer has been a busy one for RDA when it comes to awards. We are thrilled to announce that not one but two of our recent projects have been shortlisted for awards.

The Pavilion - Extension of The Year

The Pavilion joins a number of highly respected projects in the shortlist for British Homes Awards Extension of The Year (Under 2,500sqft). Designed by Frank Atkinson in the early 20th century as a summer house on a grand Georgian South London estate, this Grade II listed building is now revived as a beautiful family home through this sensitive, elegant extension. With designs and planning by Luis Trevino Architects, RDA took this project to completion – removing the previous awkward extension and transforming the home into a spacious, contemporary building that made the most of its heritage features.

Modernist Enerphit - Decarbonisation & Net Zero

Having already won Best Green Home 2023, it has been shortlisted by British Homes Awards and the Passive Trust Awards last year. This year Modernist Enerphit is shortlisted for Architect’s Journal’s prestigious Retrofit & Reuse Awards in the Decarbonisation and Net Zero category. This is one we are particularly proud of, as the driving force of RDA has always been sustainable, low energy buildings. Particularly when it comes to retrofits, and this is one of our finest and most challenging. Build by architect Michael Blackstock in the 1960’s, we took part in a lengthy process of deep retrofitting and transforming this drafty, inefficient house into a beautiful low-energy home that retains all the key design features of its Modernist roots.

We wish the best of luck to our fellow nominees, and appreciate your support of RDA. Fingers crossed!

BEYOND WORDS: Reimagining Spaces for Fifty Years

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:02:10 GMT

This June, RDA will be hosting our first ever exhibition in partnership with the London Festival of Architecture.

BEYOND WORDS is a reunion of some of Britain's boldest thinkers from the 1960s. From Archigram, the Avant Garde architecture collective who’s (largely unbuilt) bold designs influenced buildings like the Pompidou Centre. To Ian Hamilton Finlay, a concrete poet, artist and sculptor, who is one of Scotland’s most celebrated and moving artists. Each of the figures featured in this exhibition reimagined the possibilities and the structure of their fields, mostly to initial outrage, but 50 years down the line, their influence is clear.

This year, in honour of the LFA’s 20 ^th anniversary their theme is ‘Reimagine’. It’s hard to imagine a more apt theme for architecture in 2024, as our industry faces huge challenges that can only be overcome by unwavering creativity. As in the 1960’s, Britain today faces austerity, political unrest and an overwhelming sense of greyness that is not just limited to our skies. This group of artists, architects, poets and creatives redefined the boundaries of their practices in a way that changed each one for the better. By examining their work and influence, hopefully it might encourage a new era of creativity and reimagination that will strengthen and diversify our great cities.

We will be hosting a Private View (RSVP only, space is limited!) on Thursday 20 ^th June, from 6-8 pm at our East Dulwich studio – please follow the link below to RSVP, we’d love to see you there.

BEYOND WORDS: Reimagining Spaces for 50 Years

PV Thursday 20 ^th June, 6 – 8pm

On Show (By appointment only) 21 – 27 June

RDA on the Road to UKREiiF 2024

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:21:57 GMT

This May, RDA Director Richard will be donning his lycra to take part in Club Peloton's annual charity cycle to UKREiiF .

Every year, Architects, members of the construction industry and many more from all over Britain and further make the annual journey to UKREiiF, the UK's Real Estate investment and infrastructure forum. As part of this event, Club Peloton spearhead a brilliant three day charity bike ride from Oxford to the event in Leeds.

This year, as he has in many previous years, our director (and keen cyclist) Richard will be joining the Peloton to take on this challenging and hilly journey in aid of Club Peloton's fantastic projects including:

- recruiting families for 1,150 children waiting longer than 18 months to find adoptive homes

- assisting 500 families with post adoption support

- awarding 800 bikes, tandems and adapted trikes to children and young people affected by cancer

- supporting research to illustrate the relationship between physical and mental well-being and physical activity in children surviving cancer

- tackling the root causes of violent street crime through 18 amazing projects

Help Richard reach £1000 for amazing causes

This will be fifth year in a row that Richard has raised money by cycling with Club Peloton, and hopes to continue in his streak of successful fundraising for worthy causes while keeping his knees in good health.

Whether you are able to donate a little or a lot, everything is received gratefully and 100% of your donation goes to the projects above so you can rest easy.

Make sure to follow along with Richard's journey via our LinkedIn and Instagram accounts!

RDA Architect Anna Scibior Qualifies as a Certified Passivhaus Designer

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:58:06 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that Anna Scibior has recently completed her training and examination to become a fully qualified Passivhaus Designer.

Having joined RDA as an Architectural Assistant in 2016, Anna has worked incredibly hard to refine her skills and become one of the most experienced and knowledgeable members of our team when it comes to sustainable design.

This course teaches the core concepts behind the Passivhaus standard, considerations and methodologies for its implementation and the use of the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) for achieving low energy performance.

Which in turn insures that every Passivhaus, Enerphit or low-energy home we design is rooted in proven methodology and assured in its success.

‘Although the course and examination were challenging, it was incredibly worth it to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to continue building the very best in passive design at RDA.

This practice is known for its proficiency in passive design, which is why I joined eight years ago. So, becoming a certified Passivhaus designer is a true career highlight and something I am grateful for RDA for supporting me through.’

Anna Scibior, April 2024

Explore Passivhaus Projects

Navigating Your Career Path: Architecture or Interior Design?

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 10:17:46 GMT

Which Path Should I Take?

by RDA Director Richard Dudzicki

As founder and director of RDA, at this time of year I find my inbox is filled with requests from young students inquiring about work experience placements in our practice. As they look towards their future and the time for decision making draws close, I find the majority ask one very pertinent question:

Should I study architecture or interior design?

It isn’t an easy decision to make. Each discipline has its own nuances and benefits based on personal preference and aspirations. Having taught as a lecturer in both Architectural and Interior Design schools in London, I am in a position to offer a few words of advice to those who have reached this particular fork in the road. I’ve put together eight questions to ask yourself based on my own experience to help steer you towards the right path, particularly when it comes to deciding which to study.

What sparks my passion – structure or aesthetics?

Are you drawn more to the idea of considering entire structures and their environmental impact, or do you find fulfillment in crafting the aesthetic and functional aspects of interior spaces? This is a tricky question, because great architects will develop their architectural style or ideas from the interior spaces they craft. Ultimately, good interior design will lead to good architecture.

When I was working on large commercial offices in Hong Kong, I didn’t enjoy it as much as smaller-scale design. I didn’t want to work on 76 story buildings, I was far more interested in how the flow of the entrance lobby would work or what would the materials be like. Hence, I seem to be more drawn to interiors and smaller spaces. I would have ticked highly here on the interior design aspect.

Do I lean more towards the technical or the creative?

Do technical considerations like compliance with building codes and ensuring structural integrity excite you, or are you more intrigued by selecting materials, colours, and decor to enhance an interior’s ambiance? As a young architect I was far more interested in the technical aspects. I wanted to learn how to design a building in Portugal, how do you design a building to handle monsoons, or one that is going to be environmentally friendly? These are all aspects I learnt as a young student in Liverpool. My enthusiasm for decor and more intricate interior design really didn’t come to me until I finished architecture school. Therefore, I would score highly on this to be an Architect, rather than an Interior Designer. Make sure to reflect on which realm aligns better with your strengths and inclinations.

What kind of scale would I like to work on?

Are you inclined towards urban planning and monumental projects, or do you prefer the intimacy of personalizing spaces? Again, this is something that I struggled with as a young architect. I liked the vernacular and the chaotic aspects of cities, but when it came to zoning, spacing and urban planning I realised this was not my forte. I even tried a course at university to try to adapt and overcome my inhibitions. But when I started looking at smaller spaces and their zoning, I found this is what really appealed to me.

This led me to work primarily in residential spaces rather than large commercial ones, however there are people in my office who operate very differently to me. Architecture is full of variety and nuance; it might just be about finding your niche within that.

How’s my maths?

There’s no way around it, architecture demands a solid grasp of mathematics and physics. I did maths A-Level and scraped a pass, so I didn’t start off on the best foot. I don’t tend to work much on structural calculations these days, but working in sustainability involves a lot of numbers and comprehensive spreadsheets. However, in my experience when it comes to interview panels very often it’s the strength of the interior design that carries you. Having good artistic skills and a creative instinct is important for both courses, however if your aptitude for maths or physics isn’t great, then interior design may be a more straightforward route to take. But be aware, there are many schools of architecture, so don’t rule it out. Look closely at the course criteria and this will help you.

It isn’t all about the decor.

Interior spatial design is not an interior decorating course. It demystifies the key elements you need to understand how to design a three-dimensional space. You will learn how to understand light and its impact, positioning items and spatial functionality to maximise the potential of a space. When it comes to studying architecture, it will be much more technically focused, but it’s important to remember that an Interior design course won’t just be decor and trimmings.

What kind of impact am I trying to make?

It’s vital to consider whether you're more intrigued by architecture's broader societal impact, or the psychological effects of interior design. Of course, there is a huge amount of overlap in both disciplines which makes this a difficult question to answer for some, including me. Personally, I’m interested in effects of interior design on individual’s experiences within spaces. That to me is hugely important with any project because it’s what give rise to healthy buildings. Ask yourself, which impact drives you more?

What does my ideal work environment look like?

How do you envision your future client interaction and project engagement? Would you prefer to lead extensive construction projects and collaborate with a wide range of professionals, or do you prefer a more focused engagement with clients to realise their interior design vision? As an interior designer, you will likely be part of a team on a large-scale project but working independently on smaller scale aspects within it. Working in both fields gave me a very clear indication of how this works. One of the problems interior designers face is feeling a lack of control, whereas architects tend to have a greater degree of scope on the whole project due to the respective nature of their work. Where do you want to be, and who do you want to be working with?

Am I passionate about sustainability?

Are you passionate about advancing architectural techniques and sustainable building practices, or are you more interested in sustainable interior design materials and creating health-conscious living environments? Again, there is huge crossover here for both architects and interior designers, but this is a great question to help you realise where you may want to start out. I was always interested in taking a top-to-bottom approach to environmental innovation and sustainability, which drew me far more to architecture.

In my 25 plus years as Chartered Architect I’ve experienced many of the same decisions facing the students that so often get in touch. There’s no denying that the journey to becoming an architect is rewarding, but rigorous. It’s a three-year degree followed by one year work experience, then a two-year post-graduate, followed by another year of work experience and an exam at the end of it. Whereas an interior design degree is a more standard three-year course. This in itself will be a deciding factor for many prospective students.

It's worth noting that many individuals, including myself, have embarked on the path of architecture only to find their niche in interior design or other related fields. The beauty lies in the versatility of these disciplines and the ability to pivot and explore diverse career trajectories. Moreover, transitioning from interior design to architecture is not uncommon. I’ve had students that moved into interior design after their initial architecture degree, and likewise interior design students who have gone onto become qualified architects. There are lots of lots of options. Explore these options. Remember that the course that you chose is one that you should be happiest in, and the choices you make now might not necessarily be the choices you have in three- or four-years’ time.

Chose for the moment, for your skills and instincts, not necessarily for the future. Pursue what brings you happiness and fulfilment, and you'll be sure to reap the rewards.

Richard Dudzicki , Director & Founder, RIBA ARB, BA(Hons), DipArch(Dist)

To find out more about RDA’s extensive experience, and to explore the beautiful homes we’ve built and retrofitted over the last twenty-five years, click here .

Or, book in a free consultation with our award-winning PassivHaus certified designer and Director, Richard Dudzicki below.

Ask The Expert: 7 Things You Need to Know Before Designing Your Plant Room

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:38:48 GMT

As climate change becomes an increasing threat to our planet and homeowners face soaring energy costs, the ethos of the PassivHaus have never been more relevant. More of us than ever are looking to make our homes more environmentally friendly and simultaneously reduce our costs, which is why we are asked so many questions about how owning a PassivHaus can help. But what is a Passivhaus? and how does it differ from a conventional home?

A PassivHaus is a building that provides a high level of occupant comfort using very little energy for heating and cooling, due to its energy efficiency and sophisticated design. According to the PassivHaus trust, buildings are accountable for 35% of total global energy consumption. So, by reducing energy loss in the home and reducing the need to rely on excessive heating and cooling mechanisms, it becomes a positive and essential step in the fight against climate change.

Not to mention the advantages to PassivHaus owners. From extremely cheap energy bills to year-round temperature comfort and filtered air, the benefits are clear to see!

As one of the UK’s leading PassivHaus design firms, we’re here to answer your top questions about living in a PassivHaus.

1. What are the potential health benefits of living in a PassivHaus?

One of the main benefits of living in a PassivHaus is its positive effect on its inhabitants. Whereas in a normal home, you might be battling against drafts, allergens, pollution and running cost-induced stress, when living in a PassivHaus, these issues are eliminated.

Inside Pitched Passivhaus

The health benefits include:

1. Less energy use, resulting in lower bills and less stress.

2. Filtered air, which means less allergens and less pollution.

3. They are incredibly comfortable to live, sleep, and work in due to their consistent temperature.

In a time where more of us than ever are working from home, our immediate environment can have a huge impact on both our physical and mental health. A home that provides better air quality, a better night’s sleep and that reduces bill-related anxiety can only be a plus.

2. Can living in a PassivHaus help lower utility bills and save money in the long run?

On average a normal UK will use somewhere around 160 to 180 kwh of energy per annum per square metre to heat a building. In a Passivhaus this is reduced to below 15. This means that the energy needed to heat your home is going to be between 6-10 times less than the average home, and your utility bills will reduce drastically.

There are also home qualifications like ‘Passivhaus +’ and ‘Passivhaus ++’ whereby you can use renewable energy you generate (such as from solar panels) to supply the grid, who will then pay you back for the energy you produce. We have recently carried out projects with solar roofs which have end up helping our clients offset their winter bills within the summer months as they generate electricity.

"Designing and incorporating sustainability from day one not only saves money during the build project but also ensures long-term cost savings and sustainability over the lifespan of the building."

- Richard Dudzicki, Director and Founder of RDA

Solar panels on the roof o f our Modernist EnerPHit project

3. Are PassivHauses suitable for all types of households, including families with children?

Absolutely. If anything, they are more beneficial to families with young children than standard homes.

When building a PassivHaus, the goal is to minimise using fossil fuels and potentially harmful chemicals, which makes for a healthier environment for people of all ages. At RDA we use a number of methods, from low VOC paints that don’t give off as much harmful fumes as standard paints, to wood fibre insulation to reduce lung irritation. By using natural materials as opposed to plastic-based ones, it benefits the environment and the health of your family.

4. Can existing homes be retrofitted to meet PassivHaus standards?

Of course, any house can be retrofitted. The big drawback of this is how much it can cost to retrofit. For this, you need an expert opinion from a good architect.

Its also important to be aware that your home doesn’t have to meet rigorous PassivHaus standards to be more energy efficient. ‘EnerPHit’ is a slightly relaxed standard for retrofit projects, where the existing architecture and conservation issues mean that meeting the Passivhaus standard is not feasible.

Our RetroPhit project. Thermal imaging shows how much heat escapes from neighbouring properties.

To find out more about RDA’s extensive PassivHaus experience, and to explore the beautiful homes we’ve built and retrofitted over the last twenty-five years, click here !

Or, book in a free consultation with our award-winning PassivHaus certified designer and Director, Richard Dudzicki below.

FAQs about Passivhaus

The Benefits of Living in a PassivHaus: Comfort, Efficiency, and Savings

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:25:01 GMT

Not to mention the advantages to PassivHaus owners. From extremely cheap energy bills to year-round temperature comfort and filtered air, the benefits are clear to see!

As one of the UK’s leading PassivHaus design firms, we’re here to answer your top questions about living in a PassivHaus.

1. What are the potential health benefits of living in a PassivHaus?

Inside Pitched Passivhaus

The health benefits include:

1. Less energy use, resulting in lower bills and less stress.

2. Filtered air, which means less allergens and less pollution.

3. They are incredibly comfortable to live, sleep, and work in due to their consistent temperature.

2. Can living in a PassivHaus help lower utility bills and save money in the long run?

"Designing and incorporating sustainability from day one not only saves money during the build project but also ensures long-term cost savings and sustainability over the lifespan of the building."

- Richard Dudzicki, Director and Founder of RDA

Solar panels on the roof o f our Modernist EnerPHit project

3. Are PassivHauses suitable for all types of households, including families with children?

Absolutely. If anything, they are more beneficial to families with young children than standard homes.

4. Can existing homes be retrofitted to meet PassivHaus standards?

Of course, any house can be retrofitted. The big drawback of this is how much it can cost to retrofit. For this, you need an expert opinion from a good architect.

Our RetroPhit project. Thermal imaging shows how much heat escapes from neighbouring properties.

To find out more about RDA’s extensive PassivHaus experience, and to explore the beautiful homes we’ve built and retrofitted over the last twenty-five years, click here !

Or, book in a free consultation with our award-winning PassivHaus certified designer and Director, Richard Dudzicki below.

FAQs about Passivhaus

Environmentally Friendly Home Design: 4 Reasons Why Sustainability Should Come First

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:06:53 GMT

Numerous architects make the mistake of focusing on the design first and adding sustainability as an afterthought. This can lead to greenwashing and a home that doesn't meet high design or sustainability standards.

At RDA, we have a different approach: bring in sustainability at the very beginning.

" Taking a sustainability-first approach to environmentally-friendly home design is about saving money in the long run. Taking on sustainability at the start makes your architect less likely to make expensive mistakes or backtracks during the construction process to make your home more environmentally friendly. "

- Richard Dudzicki, Lead/Head Architect & Founder

In this blog, we will cover:

What we mean by a sustainable home.
The 3 risks of not taking a sustainability-first approach.
The 4 reasons sustainability should come first.

What Does Having a Sustainable Home Mean?

Designing a sustainable home is about building or converting a residence that meets your daily needs without putting unwarranted pressure on the environment. This means constructing a house that reduces waste, conserves energy, and operates in harmony with the natural world.

In recent decades, impressive technological advancements have made it possible to design homes with extremely high energy efficiency standards.

Passivhaus design is a science-backed construction method that aims to reduce energy consumption by 90%. It does this using techniques like Superinsulation, airtight construction, and triple-glazed windows.

Dulwich Park Passivhaus

Sustainable homes also tend to be healthier, with features like heat recovery air filtration systems and non-toxic building materials, which are better for the health of people and our planet.

Environmentally conscious homes can help you save money by reducing energy consumption and operating costs over time, which is becoming an increasing concern while we're facing this energy crisis and on a mission towards meeting net-zero targets by 2030.

3 Top Risks of Not Taking a Sustainability-First Approach

If your architect leaves the sustainability for later during environmentally-friendly home design instead of starting with sustainability, you can run into many problems. The top 3 risks are:

1 . Limited options and outcomes

If you are not looking at ways to make your home more sustainable from the beginning, you will limit the energy efficiency you can achieve.

For instance, if your Architect does not incorporate a place in your design to fit a Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation (MVHR) unit, air source heat pump, additional wall insulation, or oversize the windows, it will be expensive to implement later on.

Or suppose they do not consider the size, shape, and orientation of your building and how that can assist with energy generation from solar panels or natural sunlight. In that case, you will never achieve maximum energy efficiency.

Modernist EnerPHit

2 . Higher Likelihood of Greenwashing

Designing an environmentally friendly home is about so much more than just adding solar panels to your roof or installing a few low-flow toilets.

It requires a holistic approach that considers the entire lifecycle of your building, from the embodied carbon in the materials used to how the home operates on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, many architects and builders still take an approach where sustainability is an afterthought.

This can lead to a phenomenon known as "greenwashing," where your Architect adds "eco bling" to make your "eco home" seem more sustainable.

However, because they didn't consider sustainability during the design and construction process, your home doesn't actually meet the high standards necessary to earn that title.

3 . Less Value

Retrofitting your home to make it an eco home rather than designing from a sustainability-first perspective will result in fewer energy savings than incorporating sustainable features from the start.

Additionally, adding sustainable features later in the construction process can be more expensive, messy, and stressful than if they were incorporated into the initial design.

" Designing and incorporating sustainability from day one not only saves money during the build project but also ensures long-term cost savings and sustainability over the lifespan of the building. "

- Richard Dudzicki

The 4 Benefits Of Taking A Sustainability-First Approach

Taking a sustainability-first approach to an environmentally friendly home design has several benefits over a sustainability-second approach to building an eco home. The top 4 are:

1. Increase Energy Efficiency

Prioritising sustainability from the very beginning will significantly reduce the environmental impact of your home.

By incorporating energy-efficient materials, systems, and features, like reusing old bricks to minimise your carbon footprint, adding an MVHR unit, using recycled materials, and choosing sustainable wood for your flooring, you'll end up with a much more ecological home.

2. Save Money In The Long-Term

Blending energy-efficient features such as insulation, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panels into your home design from the beginning can significantly reduce your energy costs.

Additionally, you will not have to worry about paying more to incorporate sustainability features into your home at a later date.

3. Live In A Healthier Home

A sustainable home design improves the health of your home and all who live in it. Using non-toxic, natural, and sustainable materials where possible will improve indoor air quality, while natural lighting and ventilation can improve mood and reduce stress.

Designing with sustainability in mind from the beginning will also help you to create a more comfortable home, that's neither too hot nor too cold. This prevents mould from forming and harming your health.

4. Increase Resale Value

According to a survey conducted by the UK Green Building Council, 73% of UK adults would prefer to live in a low-carbon, energy-efficient home, and 67% would be willing to pay more to do so.

When you design a home with sustainability in mind from the very start, it's more likely to have a higher resale value.

This trend will only increase as the climate crisis worsens, and people will become better at distinguishing between a holistically sustainable home and one with added sustainability features.

" It is crucial to consider sustainability at an early stage to ensure that future occupants can benefit from it and appreciate the thought that went into lowering energy usage, which will no doubt increase the resale value of your home. "

- Richard Dudzicki

Dulwich Park Passivhaus

How Some Architects Approach Environmentally-Friendly Home Design

There are a variety of approaches to sustainable architecture, but not all of them are as effective as they could be.

Some architects believe that they can make a building more sustainable by simply adding on eco-friendly features, such as solar panels or a green roof, after the design is complete.

However, as we have seen, simply adding eco-friendly features like solar thermal panels to create an eco-friendly house is not enough to ensure sustainability.

" You can design a beautiful building within sustainability parameters. Rather than saying, ‘OK, I'm going to design this beautiful building, and then I've got to try and make the science fit the art’. "

- Richard Dudzicki

Pitched Passivhaus

Why Our Philosophy is Sustainability-first, Always

At RDA , we take a different approach to sustainable architecture. As Passivhaus experts, we believe that a science-backed, sustainability-first approach is the best way to ensure that your home is truly environmentally friendly.

We consider the entire project holistically, from the carbon footprint of your build and site environment to the materials and systems used to power and heat your home.

But our approach is about more than just designing an environmentally-friendly home.

It's also about creating a better quality of life for our clients and creating a home that's as beautiful as it is sustainable to offer you a healthier, more comfortable, and more long-lasting place to live.

If you're interested in building an eco-friendly or Passive House home, we invite you to get in touch with us to learn more about our award-winning approach to sustainable home design and how we can help you achieve the eco-friendly home you've always dreamed of.

FAQs about Passivhaus

RDA at the Passivhaus Trust Awards 2023

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:53:21 GMT

Our latest Enerphit project was a finalist at this year’s Passivhaus Trust Awards. Richard Dudzicki presented in front of a panel of the UK's leading experts in the Passivhaus movement. Modernist Enerphit was a finalist in the Residential Retrofit Category, which was so fierce in competition the panel decided to have four entries instead of the standard three. Time was tight but we were happy to showcase the exciting projects we worked on .

Congratulations to all other Finalists and the Winners.

The awards were hosted in the recently vacated Museum of London, in the middle of Rotunda Roundabout in Central London. Being near the Barbican center, it seemed fitting to be presenting a 1960's Enerphit project. We were so impressed with the level of work presented on all levels of scale. From Passivhaus schools to small residential Enerphits. It seems that the Passivhaus movements is gaining a lot of speed in the UK! That is why we a happy to be a part of events that increases the overall coverage of Passivhaus as ideas and techniques are shared. The sooner these principles are widely adopted the sooner we can reach a more sustainable future.

To find out about more about Passive House and the concepts that make it possible, visit our Passivhaus page.

Modernist EnerPHit: The Story Behind the Project

Passive House architect Richard Dudzicki explains how he restored this 1960s modernist house designed by Michael Blackstock, combining the original design aesthetic with a contemporary approach. The three-storey property was designed in the ‘upside-down’ style common in the 1960s, with an open plan living space and terrace sitting above the bedrooms on the first floor and ground floor parking and utility area.

To improve the energy efficiency of the house and achieve EnerPHit standard we have introduced highly efficient insulation; new windows and doors have also been fitted to improve airtightness – reducing heat loss and therefore providing a high level of comfort throughout the house. Implementing the EnerPHit standard provides a reduction of up to 83% in heating bills and is a pioneering retrofit approach in bringing the housing sector towards zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Overall it was a great day, we enjoyed seeing friends and meeting new contacts.These events are important to us as four years ago at the Passivhaus Trust Awards; Richard met the very client of this year's submission.

Thank you Passivhaus Trust for organising the event.

Is Science Or Design More Important In Eco-Friendly Home Design?

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:21:40 GMT

With so much conflicting information out there about eco-friendly home design and architects with various approaches pitching for your business, knowing what direction to take and who to trust can be hard.

You want to live in a healthy home that is also energy efficient - but it needs to make sense for your family, your property, and the design constraints. Striking a balance between science and design isn’t exactly a black-and-white formula.

We find too many architects focusing heavily on the science and technology side. We feel design should not take a back seat.

In this article, you’ll learn why our passive home experts believe design is more important than science. At the same time, we feel your architect needs a solid understanding of the science to get the design right in sustainable housing.

“ At RDA, we deeply understand the science, but the important aspect is that the science doesn’t overshadow the design of our eco houses. Design is more important than science, but it’s important that they are in unison and working in parallel. ”

- Richard Dudzicki, Principal Architect & Director of RDA Architects

In this blog, we will cover:

The Role of Science in an Eco-Friendly Home.
The Role of Design in an Eco-Friendly Home.
Why Design is More Important Than Science.
Combining Design & Science for the Best Results.

The Role of Science in an Eco-friendly Home Design

Chiswick - Eco Lodge

A comprehensive understanding of the science is absolutely crucial for creating an eco house.

Science examines the impact of your home’s energy use on the environment and gives you guiding principles. You need science for good eco home design.

For example, incorporating solar panels or wind turbines into your home can reduce your carbon footprint. You need to understand how they work and what kind of power they put out in order to make them a worthwhile investment.

We use science to build an eco house in many ways – from using energy-efficient appliances and fixtures to installing insulation and triple-glazed windows.

We use what we consider to be the best set of science-based design principles: Passivhaus.

Using Science-backed Passivhaus Principles in Eco Home Design

Chiswick - Eco Lodge

Passivhaus is a rigorous scientific standard for any eco home we use here at RDA, resulting in ultra-low energy usage and comfortable living spaces. The Passivhaus principles are:

To learn more about passivhaus visit our ' What is Passivhaus ? ' page.

The Role of Design in an Eco-Friendly Home

Eva's House

When you think of a sustainable home, you might think of a very minimalist house that lacks personality. But this no longer has to be the case. Not with an architect who has a solid understanding of both science and design principles.

You see, if a scientist designed a home, you might as well be living in a space station. You need an architect who knows good design and uses good science to guide that design.

For example, consider the harmony of science and design in a mug and a glass. They both use science to keep liquids either warm or cool.

But if the mug didn’t have a comfortable handle and pretty pattern and the glass didn’t look beautifully made and feel pleasant to hold, you wouldn’t enjoy the drinking experience as much.

While it’s vital to look at the science and functionality of what you’re trying to achieve with sustainability, you still need that design story to take over, providing the right aesthetic and functionality to make living in your home an absolute joy.

“ When you look at the certified Passivhauses, many are mundane and boring.

That’s why design needs to be a priority. ”

- Richard Dudzicki

When Science & Design Goes Wrong…

Unfortunately, many architects will get super into the “techie” side of things. They might add a token solar panel here, a Tesla storage battery there, and install triple-glazed windows.

The architect hasn’t thought about air tightness or using sustainable materials to improve healthy living standards. They haven’t thought about using the design to enhance the technology they are incorporating. They just slap the technology on top of a design and check off their boxes.

This is a form of green washing.

Here’s an extreme example: there’s a skyscraper in London called Strata. At the top, it looks like a razor clam with three massive wind generators sitting inside.

Strata Building

After about six months, they realised the wind turbines were killing the birds, causing noise pollution, and not even generating the power they needed. This serious case of greenwashing is a classic case of token science taking over the design.

“ Most architects will look at this at RIBA stage four or five and try to give you sustainability options once it’s designed. The sustainability options become tokens, and you will never get the results. It’s like me taking my jumper off and putting another thicker woolly jumper on, but my bones are still the same. ”

- Richard Dudzicki

Combining Design & Science for Best Results

Pitched PassivHaus

Science and design play complementary roles in creating an environmentally friendly house.

Science provides the data needed to make informed decisions, while the design is responsible for incorporating this knowledge into a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable living space.

Science tells us what materials, appliances, and methods will lower your home’s carbon footprint, such as insulation, window orientation, and heating or cooling appliances.

On the other hand, design can ensure that you integrate those eco-friendly features into the home’s overall design in a way that fits your needs and brings pleasure.

For example, we can use natural light to create a bright, airy living space while using that light to reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Ultimately, the relationship between science and design is crucial in creating an eco-friendly home that is both sustainable and livable.

“ Most architects won’t do all the scientific analysis in their initial concept because it’s too time-consuming, and they don’t have the skills. They haven’t done Passivhaus courses and don't have the skills to build Passivhauss. We understand the science, but we also know how to ensure it works in harmony with the design. ”

- Richard Dudzicki

Our Philosophy is Always, “Design First, Science Second”

Park Views

“ I don’t want the science of an environmentally friendly house to take over the beauty of the building because I think that is what gets to one’s heart in a space. That’s what’s really important with architectural design. ”

- Richard Dudzicki

At RDA Architects, we take a strict design first, science second approach to eco-home design. We prioritise the experience of the people who will live in your home, ensuring that the final design is functional, comfortable, and meets your needs.

Our design-first approach to sustainable homes also allows for a more nuanced exploration of different eco-friendly materials, appliances, and architectural designs that better suit your vision, tastes, and aesthetic preferences.

With the UK government recently dropping the 20% VAT on several green goods that make homes more energy-efficient, there’s never been a better time to join the eco house movement, cut costs, and live in a beautiful, comfortable, and sustainable home.

We’d love to be a part of that journey. So, if you’re interested in Passivhaus design and would like to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, please get in touch .

Video Interview with Aline, Talking to the Client

Mon, 15 May 2023 11:05:51 GMT

RDA Architects Director Richard Dudzicki, talks to his client Aline about working on Modernist EnerPHit

Our client, Aline, wanted her 1960's modernist house designed by Michael Blackstock to be restored, combining the original design aesthetic with a contemporary approach. The three storey property was designed in the ‘upside-down’ style common in the 1960s, with an open plan living space and terrace sitting above the bedrooms on the first floor and ground floor parking and utility area. To achieve Passivhaus standard we have introduced highly efficient insulation; new windows and doors have also been fitted to improve airtightness – reducing heat loss and therefore providing a high level of comfort throughout the house. Implementing Passivhaus standard provides a reduction in heating bills and is a pioneering retrofit approach in bringing the housing sector towards zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Before and after of staircase by RDA Architects

This is not a straightforward house or design. The house was in need of extensive repair works (including building fabric itself, addressing air leakages and damp), Instead of demolishing a historic award winning project, we breathed new life into the building using modern technology to extend its life span by another 100 years. This project with its EnerPHit value, corresponds to UN Sustainable development goals number 7 (Affordable and Clean energy),11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action). Within this framework, it is an encouraging example to its neighborhood and within the larger context of UK, for a more sustainable and energy efficient buildings.

By refurbishing an existing 60's property with a sustainable approach and designing to EnerPHit standards, the energy bill for this house is expected to be as low as £177.00 annually, thanks to its design.

Photo voltaic panels embedded within the roof by RDA Architects

This building is planned according to EnerPHit standards which is a Passivhaus standard intended for refurbishment projects. Using high performance products to achieve this standard included: triple glazed windows & doors and installing them with minimum thermal bridge values. Applying interior thermal insulation. Use of airtight materials. Use of Air Source Heat Pump as a renewable heating source. Use of PV panels and high-performance Tesla Batteries for storage. Use of Mixergy water cylinder for an efficient Domestic Hot Water System. Putting in a MVHR and new services that benefit the existing building and provide a high- quality air and ventilation.

Tesla Power Wall and Mitsubishi Air source heat pump used on Modernist EnerPHit by RDA Architects

Before and After of Modernist EnerPHit by RDA Architects

To see more photos of the amazing work done on Aline's home, visit the page below:

‘The top room is my favourite, the mono pitched roof, all the high terraced glazing, the lovely balcony it joins on to. It’s the openness of it all and the original features like the quarry tiles and the wooden roof I love so much. I had my engagement party up here which was a highlight and look forward to hosting more in the future as the triple glazed windows mean no more noise complaints for my Neighbours.’

- Aline

‘The top room is my favourite, the mono pitched roof, all the high terraced glazing, the lovely balcony it joins on to. It’s the openness of it all and the original features like the quarry tiles and the wooden roof I love so much. I had my engagement party up here which was a highlight and look forward to hosting more in the future as the triple glazed windows mean no more noise complaints for my Neighbours.’

- Aline

RDA Office Transformation

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:40:29 GMT

History of the RDA Office

The development of East Dulwich

East Dulwich was developed fairly rapidly in the late 1800s. The area was transformed from fields and market gardens to housing aimed at a largely middle-class market. Managed by a specialist development company, its success was dependent on the availability of public transport into London.

Our studio is situated between two historic estates. The area between Wood Vale, Barry Road and Lordship Lane was part of Friern Manor Farm, a large dairy farm. The area to the west, bounded by Lordship Lane, Barry Road and East Dulwich Road was part of the Bower-Smith estate.

History of the RDA Office

The development of East Dulwich

Peckham Rye, London

16 Forest Hill Road: a history of baking and confectionery

1891 census: Owned by Alfred & Lena Lotinga. Alfred was a ship broker, Lena ran the bakery with her 7 sons and 1 servant (they also had a daughter)
1901 census: Owned by Edward & Eliza Tew. Had 4 children & 2 servants
1911 census: Owned by Harry & Mary Ann Petry. Had 2 children and 1 servant
1939 Register: Still a bakery! Owned by Charles and Annie Lelicore

Our current studio has undergone many transformations in its lifetime. From a bakery in the 1880s, to a dental surgery and now an architectural studio. We were keen to reflect the buildings history when renovating and Victorian photographs allowed us to sensitively design a timber shopfront that reflects the buildings past whilst fitting seamlessly into its current surroundings.

During the build, a larger basement was constructed incorporating a kitchen, WC, and shower room, encouraging staff to cycle in. A surprise discovery was a Victorian bakers’ oven. After an archaeological investigation the oven was exposed and a small office created leaving the original vaulted brick ceiling uncovered. The rest of the building underwent an equally dramatic transformation.

The front of the shop has been designed to be a flexible space; movable furniture allows the area to be used as a meeting room, gallery or yoga studio. Skylights were added to allow for a greater degree of light to be thrown into the basement whilst Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery systems were installed to improve the air quality. The internal environment is monitored for C02, particulate matters, volatile compounds and general pollution, allowing us to ensure that our workplace is healthy and comfortable.

The furniture throughout is intentionally simple and functional and, although designed on a budget, forms a stunning part of the office. Our new studio framed by the original shopfront contributes to the transformation of the streetscape and thus helping to regenerate this previously forgotten area of East Dulwich.

Directing Films and High-End Home Design: Same Process, Different Mediums

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:59:33 GMT

Every detail of your high-end home design matters, from the materials you select to how you lay out your home. And this can also bring a lot of anxiety for homeowners.

The good news is you can hire a team of architects to guide you through the process.

Richard Dudzicki, our principal architect, studied architecture through film and the way the two are connected. He strongly believes that this has given him a deeper understanding of architectural design.

We thought it would be interesting and helpful to explore the similarities between designing a high-end home and directing a film.

Richard's Connection to Film

Richard Dudzicki Filming a Documentary about Passiv Mews

In postgraduate school, Richard studied architecture through film. Sounds confusing? It was actually pretty simple.

"I would watch snippets of movies and then analyse what the director was thinking within a particular scene. Then I would design a building or a concept around that.”

- Richard Dudzicki

Richard would look at set design, lighting, the mood, and the soundtrack to pick out the emotion that the director wanted the audience to feel and then translate that emotion into a structure.

Analysing how a director would put together a set t o create a moment of creativity or a scene to create a strong emotion taught Richard how to design meaningful spaces with purpose.

5 Similarities Between Film & High-End Home Design

Luxury design and film production share several similarities. Let's zoom in on 5 of those shared similarities below.

1) Both Tell a Sto ry

Peckham Heights by RDA Architects

It is pretty self-explanatory that film direction is all about telling stories. Designing a home is also about telling a story - your story.

When designing your high-end home, we, as architects, must consider the particular moments you want to create in each space and the story you want to tell.

Your likes, dislikes, goals, personality, family habits, and so much more make up your "story," and your own home should reflect all of it, with luxury interiors and special features.

2) Both Require Intensive Planning

When designing a high-end home and luxury interior design, we will sit down with you to write the "script" of your home.

Together we lay out your plans, goals, and wants, and we assess feasibility and create a design brief.

Next, we'll gather the "cast", collaborating with engineers, construction managers, and interior designers to bring your high-end home design together.

Then, it's onto "set design", where we detail how your home will look, lighting, style, materials, etc.

Finally, we get into the "production" stages, where we're actually building your home and ensuring that everything is coming together nicely. Our architects are then there "on set," overseeing progress, resolving issues, and making final "edits" to the interior design if needed.

3) You Need to Set the Mood for Both

Hannah's House by RDA Architects

The intrinsic goal of most art is to evoke an emotion. To do so, movies and high-end homes alike need to "set the mood."

Whether they film with a dark, edgy tone or a bright and airy look, both set a mood. You know at a glance what kind of film you will be watching.

When designing your home, you will need to ask yourself, “What mood do I want to create in this space?” This question will guide so many of your design decisions - from colour palettes, lighting, and furniture selections to the experience of movement and flow throughout each space in your home.

4) Both Help You Capture Meaningful Moments

Kit House by RDA Architects

At the heart of any impressive movie or high-end home design is the ability to create meaningful moments.

Whether you are having your own moment while sipping a freshly brewed coffee, an intimate moment with a partner, or playing with your kids in the living room – architecture helps you capture those in your home.

Think of the way a film zooms in on these moments in a movie. The framing and style of filming turn those moments into significant ones.

The same can happen for moments in life, big or small. Your high-end home design should create the spaces where those moments can take place through purposeful architectural design and luxury interior design.

"Similarly to film direction, when designing high-end homes, I zoom in on each space and think about the feeling of the space, the emotion I want to evoke, what you'll see when you look out the window, what texture you will feel under your feet, and how the light comes in. Like a film, your home is about creating these compelling moments."

– Richard Dudzicki

5) Quality Is At The Heart Of Success

Just because a film is longer, doesn't mean it's better. Similarly, designing a high-end home is about more than just making living rooms bigger and the luxury interior design more expensive. Both need a high level of quality to be considered award-worthy.

Creating a quality high-end home design is about thinking every decision through properly, personalising every aspect of your home to match your vision and support your life, and opting for longevity and value over what's trending.

"My background in film means my clients get an architect with a greater understanding of space and the unique detailing of that space. Some people think high-end home design is just about grandeur. That’s not always the case. You can design the smallest house in the world, and it will still look, feel, and function better than a mansion - simply because it is designed well for a particular person's story."

– Richard Dudzicki

RDA Can Write, Shoot, And Edit Your Dream High-End Home Design

Hideaway by RDA Architects

Designing your dream home and directing a movie both involve creativity, visualisation, and the ability to plan and manage every moving part.

If it sounds complicated, that’s because it is – which is why you need a good architect.

From the furniture you choose as part of your interior design to the natural light streaming into your living room, as architects, we must think about how different elements will work together to create a cohesive whole.

Our goal is to plan, solve problems, collaborate with others – all leading to your dream home.

If you want to tell your story through a beautifully finished dream home that is designed with intention, please get in touch .

Total Design Solution Makes Hiring an Architect Worth Every Penny

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:15:38 GMT

If you’re interested in designing and building the home you’ve always wanted, you might be asking yourself, “do I need an architect?”.

We get it. Lots of clients question the need for an architect - at first. In this blog post, we aren't going to spend time telling you why you should hire an architect.

We are going to tell you about what we call our total design solution. For many of our clients, this total design solution makes the decision to hire us worth the cost.

Do I Need an Architect for my Project?

First, before we get into our specific design process, let's answer a basic question. Do you have to hire an architect for every project?

Architects are not absolutely necessary for every construction project, especially for smaller projects.

Maybe you want a loft conversion without much architectural design or a small extension that doesn’t require much design work or technical drawings?

There are many building companies that do this type of work and will provide a solution based on similar homes in your area. They’re usually cost-effective, but please be aware that the quality may not always be up to scratch.

However, if your project more complex, you will need a fully qualified architect to ensure your home is refurbished or built to the highest quality. There are projects that do require an architect's talents to develop and utilise a site.

An architect is also very useful for getting planning permission to start construction and to make sure your building follows building regulations.

The best place to answer your questions about your home improvement project or new build is with an architect with knowledge of local regulations. Asking for advice from your local planning office is not always ideal as they normally over charge.

RDA’s Total Design Solution Makes Designing Your Home Fun

The RDA team developing Artists Courtyard

What is our total design solution? Simply put, it is us assisting you on your project from before it starts to after it’s finished.

It is a bit like a turnkey solution, where you tell us what you want from your home and then we give you the keys to the completed house at the end.

We're here to help on the whole project - every step of the way. That is the cornerstone of our total design solution.

We care about giving you the information you need in the beginning to help you make good decisions early on. The key to our success is nailing down the important decisions early on in the design process.

Our Total Design Solution Starts The Moment You Contact Us

Many architects might do a free consultation with you in the beginning. Their purpose is to try to lock you into working with them, and they often don’t give you any useful information. You have to start working with them to unlock the information.

We don’t work like that. We view the moments leading up to the contract as a good opportunity to build trust and give you useful information. Each stage leading up to the contract is a stepping stone.

The Beginning Stepping Stones

We typically offer three different stepping stones before a contract is started. The main benefit of doing things this way is you get clear answers and an honest price very early on.

1 - Ask The Expert

At this first stage, we have a discussion with you about the process of working with us. This very first step is typically a free 30-minute consultation.

We aren’t looking to get into details about what you want just yet. This is just your chance for some free advice and a look at what it is like to work with us.

Our goal is for you to understand what kind of architectural services we offer.

2 - Needs & Options Review

The next stepping stone is a Needs and Options Review, which is very cost-effective. In our Needs and Options Review, we will discuss your goals, needs, budget, and options for your new home.

This is key to wrapping your head around what you want out of your home - especially for big projects. We help you take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

We will then put together a comprehensive brief outlining the potential for your vision, a rough estimate of how much it will cost, and an indication of timelines and potential roadblocks.

This brief is very in-depth and useful. If you decide you don’t want to work with us, you can take that briefing document to another architect and quickly get them caught up on your project.

3 - Feasibility Stud y

If you're happy to move forward after your Needs and Options Review, the next stepping stone takes the form of a feasibility study, which is again quite affordable and commitment-free.

We will provide you with our RIBA Stage 0 report and conduct a site visit. We would create a basic design solution based on your needs and options at this stage.

Once we have come up with a feasibility design, only then will we send you an entire architectural contract for our works. You will be billed accordingly depending on the build scale and items you wish to integrate into it. We make these costs very clear.

We can provide you with peace of mind by ensuring that your project meets all local building regulations and codes. They facilitate the planning permission process almost like a project manager, giving you a higher chance of getting a planning application approved by local authorities.

We have created feasibility studies for clients to help them get planning permission before starting the actual project.

At the end of this series of stepping stones, we trust you will have the information you need to know the answer to the question, “do I need an architect?”.

After you say yes to us, we all sign a contract and get started on the project.

The Total Design Solution: After the Contract

Once we start up a project with you, we continue with our commitment to a total design solution.

What does a total design solution look like at this stage?

We don’t actually build the building for you, but we do have our own in-house specialist for mechanical and electrical, lighting, structural engineering, landscape, and sustainability.

We put together a whole package for you, working with a number of different builders, ensuring that you have a competitive price. We will give you straight answers to your questions, so that your expectations are fulfilled.

In our total design solution, we would include landscape, interior design, sustainability consultancy as well as the building works. We do the work for you to get planning permission to start the project. We work with the building company to see your vision get built right.

Richard Dudzicki Supervising Projects from Start to Finish

For all of our residential projects we offer a total solution - this is our five-star package.

As part of your project, we typically design your landscaping elements and hard furniture design, such as integrated wardrobes, kitchens, and bathrooms. Some clients choose to select soft furnishings themselves, though this is something we can also

help with.

We follow you into the construction phase of your project too. An architect is very useful at helping the contractor interpret the design documents.

What Makes The RDA Approach Different from Others

Now, there are other architects out there who work in similar ways, but there are a few things that set us apart.

1) We are Passivhaus Experts

Modern EnerPHit by RDA

We have several certified Passivhaus Designers. This is perhaps the most significant difference between us and other architects. We always look at the sustainability score when we start a project.

The sustainability score uses the Passivhaus Indicator Score, a method we developed ourselves to assess the carbon footprint of a building.

We begin measuring the sustainability score right from the starting block at RIBA stage 0. We need to do this analysis at this early stage to design the most successful energy-efficient solution for your needs.

At this early stage, we design sustainability into the home right from the start rather than develop a design and then look at ways of making it eco-friendly. Sustainability starts at RDA from the ground up.

2) No Compromises

We do not design homes that we cannot finish or oversee at the construction stage. Some architects will take their project to the planning stage and essentially "hand off" their design to their client's builder and structural engineer.

Often, the builder will look at substituting materials or different construction methods to increase their profitability. Occasionally some of the beautiful design elements that architects include get taken out, and you end up with a compromise.

With our total design solution, we avoid this, giving you what you expect and want from the outset. Working within your budget, we indicate what you can/can't afford and manage your investment to ensure a high-quality, sustainable build.

3) Commitment-free Architecture

We don’t lock up our advice and knowledge behind a contract. Instead of asking you to sign a contract right away and with little information, we use the stepping stones process we detailed above.

These stepping stones aim to give you the comprehensive information you need to make intelligent decisions about your design project.

Our goal is to help you avoid spending hundreds of thousands or even millions of pounds on a sustainable home design that doesn't meet your needs, goals, or expectations.

4) Full Control

In contrast to a design and build format, where your builder is in control of your budget and paying your architectural designer for information, we ensure that the builder is working for you , and we are acting as your agent.

We will also typically be your single point of contact, which keeps you informed without complicating things.

By acting as your agent and using our expertise, some 80 years of combined experience for all of us in this firm, we are better qualified to give you expert design solutions than a lot of the builders.

A Good Architect Helps With More Than Building Regulations and Drawings

A good architect isn’t just someone who will take a quick look at what you want and draw plans and that’s that.

Especially with a firm like us, when you hire us you get someone who will be by your side for the duration of the project. Every detail, from the permitting to the sustainability, will be a huge part of our job.

So, now when you ask yourself, “Do I need an architect for my project?”, you know what you get when you hire architects like us.

If you are looking for an architect who will be with you from start to finish, if you want an architect who will give you clear and accurate information, and if you want an architect who will bring tons of value to the table, then please book a free consolation with us and get in touch .

We'd love to be a part of your journey to your future home.

How to Make Your Home Healthier: 5 Tips for a Cleaner, Safer Home

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 17:03:45 GMT

It's no secret that the quality of our indoor air can have a significant impact on our health.

In fact, according to the WHO , household air pollution exposure leads to non-communicable diseases such as stroke, ischaemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. So, if you're looking to improve your health, a good place to start is at home!

Designing a healthy home begins with applying Passivhaus principles to your home's construction. Passive homes strictly control the carbon output of your home to not only make it better for the environment but better for you and your family too.

Passivhaus principles do not account for the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) present in your home. Also, they do not account for non-sustainable materials used in your home.

If you want to get the healthiest home possible, you will need to include a few extras in your design.

In this blog, we discuss how you can make your home healthier. This means going beyond Passivhaus de sign and exploring other aspects, like using low-VOC materials and creating the cleanest environment possible for your physical, mental, and financial well-being.

First, What Are VOCs?

VOCs are hazardous chemicals that are used to manufacture many man-made materials. Much like pollution, VOCs can be harmful to your health. Products in your home containing high levels of VOC will emit gases over time, negatively impacting your indoor air quality.

VOCs aren’t the only harmful chemicals we can find in a home, but they are one of the most common.

As a consumer, choosing products with low VOCs can be difficult. After all, you don't bu y a new sofa and see the VOC count on the label. That's why asking an architect trained in healthy home design is essential if you want to choose the best materials.

Five Ways To Make Your Home Healthier

The ethos behind our firm is not only just Passivhaus design or lowering your carbon and energy bills, but it is to provide a healthy, comfortable home, where you are not burning away valuable money or breathing uncomfortable, unhealthy fumes.

Here are the five factors we consider when designing healthier ho mes:

1) Improve Indoor Air Quality

Most people are aware of the importance of outdoor air quality, but indoor air quality is often overlooked. The quality of the air inside your home is just as important as outdoor air quality; in some cases, it can be even more important.

To reduce indoor air pollution, you must allow the home itself to "breathe." Using the most natural home design products is the best way to do so.

Allowing the building fabric to breathe, i.e. allowing moisture to travel through the fabric, will reduce mould growth and spool growth, creating a healthier option.

There are a number of things that can affect your home's air, and some of them might surpris e you.

Insulation type

Woodfibre Insulation in the Roof of Old Timber Yard by RDA

Instead of using phenolic insulation and plaster to insulate your home, which can emit harmful VOCs, consider using more natural insulation products such as, natural wood fibre insulation, natural lime render finishes, and breathable membranes.

These insulation products will allow humidity to pass through your home rather than get trapped and cause mould and mildew to form.

Though using natural insulation products is a slower process, it is far better for yo ur health.

Flooring type

G erflor Flooring of Old Timber Yard by RDA

One of the biggest things that can affect indoor air quality is the type of flooring that you have. Carpets can trap dust mites and other particles, which can then be released into the air and breathed in.

Hardwood floors are a much better option for indoor air quality, as they don't collect as much dust or contain as many VOCs as carpets.

You can also consider using natural linoleum instead of vinyl, which is made of hemp and linseed oil, making it a VOC-free product.

Paint type

G raphenstone Paint at Modern Enerphit by RDA

Another big factor that can affect indoor air quality is the type of paint that you use. Some paints release VOCs into the air, which can harm your health.

There's no point in using a breathable fabric that allows water and moisture to penetrate and then painting it with a regular paint which doesn't breathe. Effectively you are sealing the moisture in.

Look instead for breathable paints that are low-VOC or non-VOC. Something that allows the water and moisture to go through, lowering the VOCs.

Furniture type

Old Timber Yard by RDA

Furniture can also be a significant source of indoor air pollution. Some materials, like particle boards, can release formaldehyde gas, which can be attributed to health issues.

Look for furniture that is made of solid wood or that is covered in a low-emitting fabric, like cotton, hemp, wool, and linen.

Two Products That Help You Improve Air Quality:

Air Quality Records of Old Timber Yard by RDA

If a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery unit (MVHR)is not an option, we recommend purchasing a high quality model of the following:

Air purifiers: One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is to use an air purifier. Air purifiers remove contaminants and toxic chemicals from the air, making it healthier to breathe.

AirWaves monitors: These monitors will let you know what the radon, fine particulate matter, CO₂, humidity, temperature, VOCs, and pressure level is in each room of your home, helping you to make informed changes to the products you are using. You may find that even switching to natural cleaning products can make a big difference.

2) Improve Ventilation & Humidity

Most people know that ventilation and humidity are vital factors in maintaining a healthy home. However, many need to learn how they work together to achieve this.

By understanding the role each plays, you can make sure your home is as healthy as possible.

Ventilation and humidity control are important for two main reasons: Removing stale air and improving air quality.

Removing stale, contaminated air and bringing in fresh, clean air helps to prevent the build-up of harmful airborne contaminants, which can cause respiratory problems.

Humidity is also important for indoor air quality. Too much moisture can lead to the growth of mould and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems. On the other hand, too little humidity can cause dryness, leading to bacterial growth and respiratory tract irritation.

The ideal relative humidity level for indoor air quality is between 30% and 50%. You can achieve this by using a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed and by adequately sealing and insulating your home using Passivhaus principles.

3) Control the Temperature

Insulation in Old Timber Yard by RDA

No one likes being too hot or cold, so finding a happy medium is essential. But did you know that keeping your home at a comfortable temperature can also help make it healthier?

Maintaining a comfortable temperature can significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce harmful toxins.

This is because if your home is too cold, the air will become dry, and this can cause dust and allergens to circulate more and mould and mildew to form.

On the other hand, if your home is too hot, the air will be more humid, and this can also cause dust and allergens to circulate and mould and mildew to grow.

So, by keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, you can help reduce the amount of harmful allergens and toxins in the ai r.

Four Products To Help With Temperature Control

Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery Unit in Woodhall b y RDA

Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery unit (MVHR ): A MVHR unit brings fresh outdoor air into the house using ductwork, and blows exhaust air from bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms through a heat exchanger. So, you always have fresh air which is both filtered and warm, without losing heat by opening windows.

The heat exchanger salvages or recovers the heat, hence the name, Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery unit. These are incredibly efficient and give you a much more even temperature throughout your home.

Several companies are on the market for this, but we highly recommend Renson , Paul , or Zehnder's options. Some units, such as the Zehnder, also provide cooling, if necessary.

We like the Renson unit because it also has a pollution monitor that automatically detects whether the particulate or pollution levels are high outside. It then adjusts the airflow to suit. It also filters the air and harmful chemicals, which is brilliant if anyone living in the house suffers from allergies.

Air Source Heat Pump : With the current climate crisis, we are trying to remove burning gas from the grid. An air source heat pump is an inverted refrigerator that heats your hot water circuit in the house, through radiators or underfloor heating, should you need it, and the hot water tank.

The efficiency ratio of this is between 2.5 and 3. Therefore, for every kilowatt of energy you put into an air source heat pump, you get about 2.5 to 3 kW of heat. This makes the energy costs the same and if not less than gas, and you are eliminating the burning of gas.

As our national grid gets decarbonised, you are contributing to the decarbonisation of the nation. This is a no-brainer, and by going down the Passivhaus route, you will need less energy in the first place. So it's a total win-win situation.

Air Source Heat Pump at Modern EnerPHit b y RDA

Mixergy Hot Water Tank: A Mixergy hot water tank doesn't have a standard heating element. It has a heat exchanger with plates that only heats a small proportion of the water rather than the whole tank. It is configured to work with your energy tariff and with your usage.

You can also use their smartphone app to see how you use the hot water, so you only heat enough hot water for daily use. This can also be accompanied by solar power so that the solar cells can also heat your hot water tank and store the energy there.

Use Existing Materials : As well as using natural materials within the building fabric, or even the structure, the best material to use is the existing fabric, and not changing it. Because obviously, the energy which builders used to produce this fabric is still there. Therefore, we are using less energy in most cases by leaving it intact and making it more comfortable.

In most cases, we would insulate the buildings on the outside, whether new or existing, replace the windows to triple-glazed, and change their location to be in the thermal envelope.

This is so the edge of the window never touches the cold part of the building, meaning the window will not transmit the cold energy from the structure as quickly as it might have before in the previou s building.

4) Improve Lighting & Reduce Glare

To make your home healthier, consider reducing the amount of lighting and glare. Glare can be caused by a number of things, including sunlight, artificial light, and even reflections from surfaces like mirrors and glass.

It can be tough on your eyes and can even caus e headaches. Reducing the amount of light and glare in your home can help you feel more comfortable and may even improve your overall health.

5) Soundproof Your Home

Soundproofing is a great option if you're looking for ways to make your home healthier. It can help reduce noise pollution and improve your overall quality of life.

There are various ways to soundproof your home. The best method depends on your specific needs. But regardless of which method you choose, soundproofing can make a big difference in your health and well-being.

Making Your Home Healthier Is One Of The Best Things You'll Ever Do

RDA Director, Richard Dudzicki enjoying the view from a new Passivhaus Home

Passivhaus and healthy home design allows you to live in total comfort.

Making your home healthier through the above methods and with a Passivhaus design will increase your overall satisfaction with your home, health, and quality of life.

We'd love to be part of your journey to a healthier, more comfortable home. So, if you're interested in Passivhaus design and would like to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, please get in touch .

Richard Dudzicki Cycles from London to Cannes for MIPIM 2023

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 10:48:44 GMT

Club Peloton is the charity and real estate cycling community transforming the lives of young people. Since 2006, it has given £4.5 million in grants to projects that make a real difference. Cycle to MIPIM is Club Peloton's original endurance fundraising ride that brings together cyclists of all abilities to ride, network and fundraiser. Every year, riders from across the property industry complete the 1,438km challenge from London to Cannes, arriving in time for MIPIM, the leading international real estate fair.

Our director, Richard Dudzicki embarked on the week long cycle in March 2023. The weather wasn’t kind but it was all worth it, as a group they were able to raised over £200k for numerous charities. Richard was able to reach his donation fun target while making lifelong memories and friends over the cycle. From all of us at RDA we would like to thank you for all the support!

Charities

This was the second time Richard Dudzicki cycled to MIPIM to raise funds for charities that change young lives. These Charities are:

Cyclists Fighting Cancer

Helping young people living with cancer across the UK regain their physical fitness, improve mental wellness and reduce social isolation by giving them new lightweight bikes, specially adapted trikes, tandems, other equipment and support.

Mutiple System Atrophy Trust

Supporting people affected by multiple system atrophy (MSA) – a rare neurological disease with no known cause or cure. They fund research into MSA and support those affected by the condition.

Thomas Coram Foundation for Children

Finding adoptive families for children in need of loving, permanent homes; helping parents by offering support through their children’s early years or when they become overwhelmed by their own problems and struggle to provide the stability their children need.

The Tom AP Rhys Pryce Memorial Trust

Helping tackle the root causes of violent street crime in London by helping disadvantaged young people see the potential value of their own lives and therefore the lives of others too.

Picture credit to Club Peloton/Matt Alexander

What to Know When Planning a Basement Conversion in London

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:42:14 GMT

It is becoming difficult to get planning to build extensions or build up in London, especially if you have an older building in a conservation area. So, many residents are looking to convert their basement into a usable spaces or to excavate the ground beneath their homes to create another floor.

At RDA Architects, we have completed countless basement conversions in London, giving homeowners an entire extra floor to use as functional living space. From home cinemas and gyms to home offices and flats, the possibilities for your basement conversion in London are endless.

But how much does a basement conversion in London cost? What is the process like, and what factors do you need to consider for a successful basement conversion? In this article we will be answering the questions we get asked the most about basement conversions.

How Much Does a Basement Conversion in London Cost?

Ray of Light House by RDA

The cost of basement conversions in London can vary greatly depending on the size and scope of the project. However, on average, you can expect to pay between £5,000 and £10,000 for a square meter of basement for a typical conversion.

There are four extra considerations that impact the c ost of your basement conversion:

1) Condition of Existing Basement

An existing basement in poor condition will drive up the cost of the conversion. If something like the structural integrity of the existing basement needs work we can’t just build on top of that. First, we would need to improve the integrity of your existing basement before starting on any expansion.

2) Basement Size

The size of your basement will have a big impact on the project's overall cost. Generally speaking, the larger the basement, the more expensive it will be to convert.

3) Aesthetic Finish

Another factor that will affect the basement conversion cost is the finish level you're looking for. If you want a high-end, luxury finish, you can expect to pay more than if you're happy with a more basic finish.

4) The Contractor You Choose

Finally, the cost of your basement conversion will also depend on the contractor you choose to carry out the work.

Overall, the cost of basement conversions in London can vary widely, so it's important to get a few quotes and compare prices before deciding.

The Process of Converting a Basement in London

Basement Refurbishment by RDA

Though expensive, a well-executed basement conversion can add significant value to your home, so it's worth considering if you are looking for extra living space in London.

Here are the 6 steps you can expect during your basement conversion in London:

1) Architectural Design

An experienced architect can help turn your vision into reality. When we work on basement conversions, we conduct an initial assessment of your property and advise on what type of conversion would be most suitable given its individual characteristics.

We will prepare detailed plans, which need to be submitted for approval from your local authority's planning department before work begins.

Later we will submit even more detailed plans to Building Control, Party Wall Surveyors, and Health and Safety Executives. We will look at the drainage too.

2) Basement Impact Assessment

A basement impact assessment looks at what will happen to the surrounding water or properties should you build a cellar conversion.

This is essential and expensive documentation to take on b oard, and it might include digging boreholes for geological work to be carried out. This will give everyone an excellent understanding of whether the basement is possible.

3) Planning Permission

The next step is obtaining planning permission from the local authority, which can be a lengthy process.

The rules and regulations are changing, making new basement builds more complex to get approved. For basement development and conversions for existing basements, it is much easier to secure planning permission.

You will need Party Wall Awards with any adjoining neighbours. This is part of the Party Wall Act 1996.
Basement work will need notification to the Health and Safety Executive. At RDA, we take care of this as a step in our process.

In general, mega basements are not allowed by most of the local authorities. This is because digging below two stories can cause issues and may require greater pumping and other solutions to ensure that the groundwater doesn't build up.

In some areas of London such as “The Scheme of Management of The Dulwich Estate” or “The Howard de Walden Estate” will need separate additional applications. If the building is listed or in a conservation area, this too will need to be addressed.

4) Builder Quotes

After being granted planning permission and have structural designs, you can start to look for a reputable builder to carry out the work.

Getting several quotes from different builders before making a final decision is essential, as the cost of converting a basement can vary considerably. Having a comprehensive Schedule of Work with production drawings is essential to get equal and fair price comparisons.

Once you have chosen your builders through the tender process managed by your Architect, they will survey your property to assess the work that needs to be done.

After the survey is complete, the builder will provide the Architect with a detailed quote for the work. These tender returns are opened together at the Architect's office and analyzed occasionally with a quantity surveyor (building accountant).

Once they are confirmed by the professional team, then the decision is yours as to who you choo se.

5) Construction Work

Magnolia House by RDA

When you have accepted the quote, a contract is entered into and administered by the Architect. This can take several weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the work. Then the project can start.

Your Architect will attend the site every few weeks to assess progress, answer questions, and ensure the result matches the brief.

The Architect wil l report to you until Practical Completion and you will make regular payments to the builder dependent on the Architect's Certificate of Valuation.

6) Certificate of Occupancy

Once the work is complete, a completion manual will be provided with sign off from the necessary statutory bodies and any warranties. We usually keep a 2.5% retention from the builder for a period of a year to deal with snags.

The Benefits of a Basement Conversion in London

If you're like many Londoners, you're probably wondering if a basement conversion is right for you and your home. Here are the top 4 benefits of basement conversions:

Increase the value of your home.
Add new and needed rooms, like a home office or a workout room.
Take advantage of otherwise wasted space in your home.

RDA Architects' Examples of Successful Basement Conversions

At RDA Architects, we have completed many sustainable basement conversion projects, including:

So it's safe to say we know a thing or two about successful basement conversions. In saying that, here are a few things to keep in mind when undergoing a basement conversion in London.

Our Tips For Basement Conversions in London

1) Know ahead of time that the cost will be higher than work above ground

There are many ways of adding space to your home in London, with basement conversions typically one of the more expensive ways of doing so.

Executing construction work below ground tends to be twice the price of doing work above ground.

2) You can take advantage of natural light in a basement

Ray of Light House by RDA

A basement is far nicer if you can step the landscape to create natural light into it. In most cases, we incorporate the basement with the landscape so you can step down to the landscape to allow light to flood into the basement rather than just having a hole in the ground.

3) Basement waterproofing is key

Make sure the basement is waterproofed to avoid any water damage. There are a few different ways to waterproof a basement, so it is important to consult a professional to find the best solution for your home.

4) Extending the foundation through underpinning can get pricey

Underpinning foundation at Ray of Light House by RDA

Underpinning increases costs considerably. So the main criteria you need to consider is how much depth you have in your cellar before the foundations stop.

If you have eno ugh room in the cellar head height without underpinning, your basement conversion will be cheaper than if you had to underpin the surrounding walls.

Things to Consider When Planning a Basement Conversion

When planning a Basement conversion in London, there are a few things you need to take into consideration regarding basement structures:

Do you have an existing basement?
Does it get wet?
Where is the current water table?
How high is your basement structure?
Do you have adjoining buildings?
Do you have to deal with party walls?
Do you have the budget?
What is the purpose of the basement?
What layout and design do you envision?
Will you need to add any walls or partitions?
What kind of lighting/electrical outlets will you need?
What finishes, like paint, and flooring do you want?

Consider A Garden Room as An Alternative to A Basement Conversion

Garden room at Village House by RDA

Another fantastic way of adding space into your property, should you decide a cellar conversion or basement project isn't for you, is to consider a garden room. We have designed many high-quality garden rooms, like the garden room in Village House (above).

A garden room tends to cost about the same as building a n extension. If you have enough garden space, the results can be quite impressive. Garden rooms are great for teenagers to hang out in or as an office or yoga studio.

Want To Build Or Convert Your Basement Sustainably?

Though the process of converting a basement in London can be complicated and expensive, it is definitely worth it in the end, as you will end up with a beautiful, functional new living space that you can enjoy for many years to come.

We hope this blog has helped you make a confident decision about your potential basement conversion or new build. If you still need to figure out if this is the best way to add space to your London home, let our architects guide the way.

Our team of experts are passionate about creating beautifully functional living spaces that exceed your expectations and meet strict Passivhaus standards.

With the UK government recently dropping the 20% VAT on several green goods that make homes more energy-efficient, there's never been a better time to join the Passivhaus movement, cut costs, and live in a beautiful, comfortable, and sustainable home.

We'd love to be a part of that journey. So, if you're interested in Passivhaus design and want to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, please get in touch .

Richard Dudzicki on Site at Ray of Light House by RDA

Richard Dudzicki Talks About Designing Modernist EnerPHit

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:10:27 GMT

Modernist EnerPHit: The Story Behind the Project

My Experience Judging the British Homes Awards

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Sun, 02 Oct 2022 13:15:37 GMT

I was a judge for the British Homes Awards 2022

This year's British Homes Awards will take place on the 30th of September at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square. I was invited to join the judging panel for this prestigious awards competition. I was honored to work alongside a talented lineup of distinguished architectural colleagues.

This awards event takes place every year to celebrate architectural design excellence in the UK. Awards are bestowed for "House of the Year," "Best Interior Design," "Best Landscaping Design," and "Sustainable Development of the Year."

These prestigious awards recognise excellence and it was a privilege to help select the winners for this year's awards ceremony.

Why The British Homes Awards Chose Me As A Judge

Having won several awards and finalist positions for my Passivhaus design projects, most notably in The National Homebuilding and Renovating Awards , the British Homes Awards chose me for my unique experience with sustainable home design.

As a first-time judge, I can't express how truly honoured and excited I am to work alongside architects I greatly admire. Having the chance to give something back and offer my perspective on some of the most impressive home and interior design projects the British house building industry has to offer is a career highlight.

How The Judging Process Worked

I completed the judging process virtually, spending 48hrs exploring the videos and presentations the entrants provided. I also viewed some local buildings in person.

There were several categories for entry. Some of the more exciting ones were the affordable housing category and the best community living category.

I assessed designs that covered everything from house modifications and extensions to large complexes, reviewing over 35 projects.

Seeing every judge's thought process and what they do/don't support was exciting and interesting.

In general, we all seemed to agree on most matters, despite having different architectural and interior design backgrounds. But there were a few occasions where we definitely differed. The healthy debates made the judging process even more interesting for me.

Through my experience, I learned that the judging process is much more sophisticated than looking at pretty pictures. We go incredibly in-depth to judge each project holistically.

What I Thought Of This Year's Competition Entries

There were some stand-out submissions. Some were high-end, and others were innovative projects focused on integrated community living.

One such project specifically designed containers to provide the homeless with somewhere safe to live, which I found very interesting. Many of the best community living category entries had a heavy focus on the impact of Covid-19.

Every project told a different yet compelling story and captured an entirely distinct market, whether one-off houses, affordable student housing, or high-end city living.

From a conversion in Knightsbridge that preserved its façade retention and ultra-modern skyscrapers to beautifully quaint music colleges, I saw everything that a home could be.

Throughout my judging experience with the British Homes Awards, I was also impressed by the sheer volume of architects concerned with embodied carbon and sustainability. It makes me happy to see that this has been one of the major developments in home and interior design in recent years.

I also enjoyed the designs that repurposed old mills, buildings, and warehouses to incredible standards, whether for student living or for introducing new communities to large-scale developments by incorporating all sorts of new marketable elements.

One particular scheme like this in Bristol on the Rover side really struck a chord with me. It ticked all of the right boxes, was well thought through, and actually felt like somewhere I would like to live.

Elements I Wanted To See, But Didn't

Overall, I felt certain aspects were missing from most of the entries.

Namely, the lack of target energy use data and technical information to support it. For instance, some buildings' embodied carbon content didn't have enough technical detail.

One design that stood out to me used locally-crafted terracotta tiles that acted as external cladding. I would have loved to know how much embodied energy this technique used or saved.

I would have liked to see more specifics on how many kilowatts of energy a particular apartment uses per annum, per square metre. These energy use statistics would have helped me compare like for like.

5 Recurring Themes In Sustainable Home And Interior Design

Judging this year's British Homes Awards was an incredible experience and an eye-opener into the plethora of different styles of homes and the potential for reusing older buildings.

Here are 5 recurring themes I noticed throughout my judging experience that I think we will see recognised at the awards ceremony.

1 - Old Buildings, Made New

Rather than demolish, why not renovate older derelict buildings? I've seen incredible examples of renovations, from one-off houses to art galleries and museums.

I loved that this theme took a firm hold on this year's entrants.

2 - Modern, But Natural

Another aspect I noticed was the decreased focus on clean modernism and more thought given to terracotta or brick-led designs that still applied modernist principles but with traditional materials.

The overall look is leaning softer and more organic, with buildings taking a slightly more stealthy earthenware look, even if they are contemporary.

3 - Minimal Yet Captivating Architectural Design

I found that even homes with the most minimal designs could be incredibly thought-provoking, thanks to the complex harmony of material choice, light, elevation, and landscape.

4 - Broken Plan Living

There was one scheme in Wembley where the roof garden and courtyard had small break-out spaces with old camper vans and garden sheds.

Open-plan living doesn't work for everyone, especially with working from home.

Maybe we're moving to "broken plan" living for more flexibility and privacy. Functional co-working spaces are key to this style of design.

5 - Bricky Blandness

I continuously saw patterned brickwork throughout the schemes, but it's not something I'm particularly keen on.

Maybe brick is better for the English climate but is it the best solution? I am not sure.

3 Key Takeaways From The British Homes Awards

I saw innovation showcased on a grand scale while judging. Here are my key takeaways from the competition that homeowners and project owners looking to build sustainably should absolutely consider.

1 - Build For The Future

If you're designing a new home now, you should think about how the house will function in 30 years.

What needs will the owners of the house have in 30 years? Is the house designed with those needs in mind?

2 - Think "Flexibil ity"

You must also consider the benefits of going with a broken plan design.

This might look like sliding doors, folding screens, and different floor levels to "zone" your interiors.

Partition and pivot designs can help you make spaces bigger, smaller, more open, or more private — depending on your needs.

If designing a mixed use development, include areas like co-working spaces and a community centre. Maximize the potential uses of these spaces.

3 - Prioritise Sustainability

With the energy crises currently destroying our planet, put all your focus on conservation. How, as a society, can we all live and work together to build a better, more sustainable future? Some things to consider:

Heating and cooling: Future homes will not have boilers, gas heating, or chimneys. So how can you implement air source heat pumps in your building for better home heating, cooling, and energy consumption?

Sustainable transport: How can you incorporate storage and charging elements for more sustainable forms of transportation, such as electric bikes, scooters, and cars?

Solar energy: Consider using solar panels and thinking about where you can place batteries in your home. Understand what these solar elements will look like in your housing development.

Aim for an A+++ rating: When designing a new house, aim for an A+++ rating on your energy performance. This will significantly increase the value of your property and decrease energy costs.

Design first, science second: Focus first on a high quality design that encourages energy conservation and sustainability. The standards for Passivhaus designs are a good place to start here.

Avoid "eco bling": Eco standards for the sake of it is something I deeply dislike and did see examples of in my judging. These aspects barely contribute to a design's energy efficiency and are just there "for appearances."

Holistic ecology: Take ecological aspects of your property into account from the beginning, not as an "add-on" once you've designed your building.

Overall, trust architects, think about the future, and remember you are building a legacy — a home that will be here long after you pass away.

The British Homes Awards Represent the Major Developments in Design

The buildings that I saw throughout my judging experience with the British Homes Awards have inspired me to think a little more creatively about our own sustainable projects.

These competitions should reward the best in the British homebuilding industry and encourage architects to gain inspiration from the innovation showcased.

Inspired by my experience at The British Homes Awards, at my firm, we're working on a new community living project where we are converting an old police station into housing for over 55s.

If this competition inspired you to get started on the design of your sustainable, legacy-building home, please get in touch today.

What Score Does Your Home Or Site Get For Ecological Sustainability

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 16:21:45 GMT

Does Your Home Meet Passive House Standards?

As professional architects with a passion for not only beautiful designs but also ecology, we’ve developed a Passive Indicator Scoring Method to help our clients create more energy-efficient homes and buildings adhering to passive house standards in the UK. We believe in guiding our clients to think not only about the present but the long-term benefits.

With Passivhaus design, you enjoy all the qualities of healthier well-being and extra comfort in your home. And when you are ready to sell your house or property, sustainable buildings have a higher resale value. What score does your site or building receive?

What is Our Passive Indicator Score?

Our unique Passive Indicator Score is a grade we give your design based on passive house standards in the UK for your home or building.

We assign your planned design a score between 0 and 36 – with 36 being the best. Based on this score we label your design as one meeting one of our three standards:

RDA (Score of 0-12)
RDA+ (Score of 13-24)
RDA++ (Score of 25-36)

We aim to have all of our designs fall in the RDA+ standard, or higher. If your current design falls in the RDA range, we will provide optional solutions that will bump your design into the RDA+ range.

How Is Our Passive Indicator Score Calculated?

We calculate each score based on 5 core elements. The 5 core elements of our Indicator Score are:

Building Performance
Climate Adaptiveness
Health and Wellbeing
Financial
Social

Within the 5 main categories, we have come up with 12 parameters for scoring. Your design will receive a score of 0-3 for each parameter, with 3 being the most environmentally friendly.

Here are the basic Passivhaus ideals that we will be evaluating to calculate your score.

1. Evaluating orientation for sunlight and building shape

Is your site located in the center of London surrounded by many high towers? This will make it difficult for the sun to shine through. If you want to put solar panels on your roof to generate energy, you are going to need natural sunlight.

Does your home have a long rectangular shape or is it an ancient castle with turrets and a larger perimeter? Cold and wind enter from each side of the building, so the irregularities in the shape affect the Passive Indicator Score.

By reviewing options to let the sunshine in and exploring different building shapes, you can get a higher rating and be more energy-efficient to align with passive house standards. With our RDA++ design, new and refurbished homes save up to 80-82% on energy bills.

2. Determining flexibility and constraints

Historical buildings have limitations, and it isn’t always easy to make the needed changes for your home to be more ecological. You wouldn’t want someone to renovate Buckingham Palace, changing its charm, just to put in energy-efficient windows.

Hundreds of years of building around London contribute to power cables, telephone lines, and plumbing running under the city. Determining where the sewer lines are on your property will inform how flexibly you can design your building. What Passive Indicator Score will your site receive if it’s located by the Thames River?

Or is your building part of a row of homes? Just because you are ready to make your home more sustainable, doesn’t mean that your neighbors are ready as well. During our Needs and Options Review, we investigate the constraints for your project and explore options to address them.

3. Controlling drafts and air temperature for comfort

When designing by the 5 principles of Passivhaus, controlling the temperature is key. Making the building comfortable means eliminating drafts and preventing the cold from entering your home. The house is thermally regulated and airtight even if you are living by the sea with gale-force winds and sprays of seawater.

The large, picturesque window to the garden may give you an amazing view but allows for the cold to seep in. Passive house design and triple-glazed windows could be the solution to keep out the draft.

Every balcony is an opportunity for the wind to enter and you need to close the gaps to keep the house warm. Insulation and heated floors will keep your home at a constant temperature making it comfortable for you and your family. And during hot summer days, blinds can be used to control the heat of the sun penetrating your house.

What score will your building receive for temperature control before anything has been renovated?

4. Improving the structure

Some materials are more sustainable than others. For example, timber is more sustainable than steel or concrete. Is there a way to save the materials if you plan to demolish the building? Can you preserve the shell and renovate just the inside? Can the exterior be improved to make the building more ecological and what will this entail?

Follow passive house standards, think long-term and invest upfront to design your building to be more sustainable.

5. Scoring for energy and ventilation

The Passive Indicator Scoring Method also investigates the possibilities for energy reuse. Is there a way to use the wind to generate energy? How about using solar tiles or battery packs? Can your building become self-sufficient when it comes to power? By analyzing different options, we can guide you to make informed decisions about what is best for your project.

Passivhaus design standards address ventilation systems, too. These systems remove stale and moist air while welcoming fresh air for you and your family. The clean air is without moisture and dust and contributes to a better living environment, so you won’t have to worry about hay fever and allergies.

Passive house design standards reduce taxes and save energy

By analyzing the Passive Indicator Score your home or site receives, you can understand how ecologically sustainable your building is. Reviewing the information, you can determine if you want to invest more in order to reap the benefits of having a more energy-efficient home.

Plus it’s only a matter of time before the UK government implements savings in taxes when you meet passive house standards. You’ll gain a healthier and more comfortable home as well as a higher resale value with a Passivhaus design.

If you're interested in Passivhaus design for your home and would like to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, please get in touch.

How You Can Make A Positive Change By Designing A Passivhaus Home

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:01:41 GMT

Why Passivhaus Deisgn Is Better for You, Your Family, and the Environment

Faced with climate change, global warming, increasing pollution and dwindling natural resources, maybe you're looking to do your part to help the planet but not sure where to start. What better way to take the first steps at improving the environment and becoming eco-friendly than by designing a Passivhaus home? After all, a home that is healthier, happier and comfortable to live in is beneficial to you and your family. If it’s energy-efficient, that’s an added bonus.

But before you join the thousands of other people who are building new homes or redesigning their current houses, you may have a few questions. As professional architects in London who specialize in Passivhaus design, let us help you understand what all the excitement is about.

What actually is Passivhaus?

Buildings emit carbon which accounts for 35% of the total global energy consumption . A Passivhaus home is designed to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your house. This is done by taking advantage of natural sunlight, shading and ventilation. And with the use of eco-friendly sustainable materials, you can do your part to help the environment.

For a house to classify as a Passivhaus, it needs to meet energy requirements. The energy demand for space heating needs to be less than 15kWh/m² per year compared to a typical home around 160kWh/m² per year. The energy needed for your appliances like heating, hot water and other appliances should be less than 60kWh/m² of living space per year. Taking energy efficiency to another level, you can design so your home is zero-energy where your house produces as much energy as it is using.

The Passive House is the world-leading standard in energy-efficient construction .

Is there a difference between EnerPHit and Passivhaus?

You may be living in a beautiful Victorian home. You love the bay windows and steep, peaked roof. Instead of a new home, you prefer to renovate your current home and being socially conscious, you want to comply with the economical and ecological standards as much as possible.

The standard for renovating older buildings is EnerPHit, a quality-approved energy retrofit with passive house components. The standards are similar, but you have a little more leeway in requirements compared to Passive House. Both types of buildings will still give superior comfort and energy efficiency compared to traditional homes.

This way you stay in the home you love, but renovate to meet the EnerPHit standards to give your family a comfortable and high-quality lifestyle.

What are the 5 principles of a Passivhaus?

To get the maximum benefits of a comfortable and healthy home for you and your family, as professional architects we guide our clients to meet the Passivhaus principles. These include the following:

1. Superinsulated Envelopes

Superinsulated envelopes mean that there’s insulation all around the house, including the walls, floors and roof. The idea is to keep the home at a comfortable temperature, no matter what the weather is outside. Imagine walking around your home without getting a nasty blast of a winter wind blowing from one corner of your living room.

2. Airtight Construction

Another Passivhaus principle deals with airtight construction. When the house is fully sealed, there’s no leakage of air around the doors, windows, electrical outlets or any other places that may have gaps. By plugging the holes, you stop moisture from accumulating and losing heat in the cold weather.

With airtight construction, you eliminate cold spots, drafts and places that condensation can occur. Stopping moisture from accumulating also improves the indoor air quality and creates a healthier environment for you and your family.

3. High-Performance Glazing

Windows and doors are prime places for heat loss and gain. Controlling the design and location of the glass openings can make all the difference in your Passivhaus home. Optimal positioning of the windows lets natural sunlight inside and professional architects are experts at placing windows to allow light in without the distracting glare.

By having two or three layers of glass and gas insulation, you prevent the cold from entering and heat from escaping in winter. And in the summer, these high-performance glazed windows keep the heat out. Coupling the window’s passive house standards with the architect’s understanding of the path of the sun at various times of the year, allow your windows to take advantage of the heat entering from the sunshine. To prevent the home from being too hot, trees can also be planted to provide shade from the summer sun.

Natural light coming through windows can overheat your home and cause an increase in the amount of energy needed for air-conditioning. In my Passivhaus home in London, I have triple-glazed windows so I added blinds to reduce the heat entering from the sun keeping the building at a constant temperature. And to contend with the cold London winters, the insulation keeps the heat inside so the house isn’t drafty and chilly.

4. Thermal-bridge-free detailing

Heat moves around your home traveling the path of least resistance. A thermal bridge is a location where the heat flow is different from the rest of your building. To meet passive house standards, you want to eliminate any place that has a weak spot, where the heat level isn’t continuous. This keeps the temperature of your house comfortable no matter where you are inside.

When we are renovating a house to meet Passivhaus standards, we bring our thermal camera with us to detect any place that has a thermal bridge. This way we know where the problems are so that we can provide solutions and eliminate the heat leakage.

5. Heat recovery ventilation

Since the house is airtight, you need a good ventilation system to breathe clean air. A passive house ventilation system has a heat recovery ventilator (HRV). The system removes the stale and moist air and delivers fresh air. In fact, the air is so clean that you won’t have to worry about dust, hay fever and allergies.

In the warmer summer months, most Passive House-certified ventilation systems also feature a bypass damper to divert air around the heat recovery core. This allows the system to bring in fresh air without recovering the heat if it’s not needed, keeping your home cool.

Clean, fresh air without moisture and dust contributes to a better living environment for you and your family.

By following the Passivhaus principles, your home will not only meet your current and future lifestyle but also be more comfortable and healthier.

Will you compromise on quality and style?

You may think that by designing a Passivhaus you’ll need to compromise on the quality or the style of your home. That isn’t the case. There are many beautiful homes designed to meet the Passivhaus standards. You can have a modern industrial design just as easily as renovating your classic London Georgian home with its ornate charm and rigid symmetry.

Modern technology has developed materials that are not only sustainable but eco-friendly. In my house, I used breathable paint to allow any moisture within the building to come out. Heat recovery ventilators (HRV), energy-efficient windows, water-conserving plumbing fixtures and fluorescent lighting can all contribute to eco-friendly design without compromising your style or the quality of your home.

Contemporary or traditional design for your home is up to you and as professional architects, we can guide you on the selection of materials to meet your lifestyle.

Do the windows of a Passivhaus open?

You can definitely open the windows and doors in a passive house. The breeze of fresh air and the smell of the great outdoors contribute to your well-being. Opening your doors and windows is the easiest, cheapest, most effective and environmentally friendly way of cooling your house.

Tilt & turn windows can be installed. The tilt allows for healthy weatherproof ventilation. Windows that tilt open also have an added level of security making entry into the house from the outside nearly impossible. Windows in the turn position provide easy access to both sides of the frame for cleaning as well as fast air exchange.

Is a Passivhaus more expensive?

Worrying about the expense of a Passivhaus design is always a concern from my clients. Though they may be slightly more expensive than a typical house, in the long run, they are more cost-effective. You will be saving money on your energy bills, plus decreasing your carbon footprint.

In fact, we’ve done a study showing the comparison with current energy demand and the savings for our clients based on a 60-year life expectancy for their homes. On average, the clients save £166,000 over the lifetime of the house.

RDA's Richard Dudzicki and his wife Eva were featured on Extraordinary Extensions hosted by Tinie . The show explored the challenges and advantages of Richard's passion project, converting a Victorian Warehouse to a Passivhaus home, the first project of it's type in the UK.

Taking it personal

More and more people are being socially conscious, doing their part for the environment. It’s so important for each of us to do our share to save the planet. When it came time for the redesign of my own London home , I challenged myself to make it meet the passive house standards with a sustainable design.

The triple-glazed windows let the light in and the blinds prevent the summer heat from penetrating keeping the house temperature at a constant level. Insulation keeps the house comfortable and the breathable paint allows the moisture out and prevents condensation.

The benefits of Passivhaus are enormous. I want to give my family the freedom to breathe clean air, prevent hay fever and allergies and eliminate soot and pollution. We can live without drafts and chills so common in London and the triple-glazed windows block out noise even from the surrounding airports.

Stepping up and investing in the future with Passivhaus design

Designing your home by Passivhaus standards is both economical and ecological. You don’t have to compromise your taste in design or the high-quality lifestyle that you deserve. Your home can be built to allow the sunlight to shine in without having to worry about overheating. Imagine living in a comfortable temperature without cold London drafts entering your house from every window opening.

By making your house airtight, but with proper ventilation, you’ll also have cleaner fresher air. You won’t have to smell the pollution from the traffic outside, nor will you have to suffer from dust or soot. Better air quality means less hay fever and allergies making your family healthier.

Whether you are designing a new home or renovating an existing house, you can embrace the movement and create a sustainable building. Reducing the carbon footprint and keeping energy levels low is a win for yourself as well as our planet.

If you are ready to live a more comfortable lifestyle in a happier and healthier home that is better for you, your family and the environment, contact us at +44 (0)20 8299 2222.

UK Tax Incentives for Retrofits

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:08:37 GMT

The UK lowers VAT on home energy retrofits,

but is it enough?

The UK government recently announced a VAT reduction for home energy retrofits from 20% to 0% for specific energy-efficient home improvements like installing heat pumps, solar panels, and insulation.

This is an excellent step towards achieving the UK government's goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

But what exactly is a retrofit, and what does this retrofit tax reduction cover? What are the benefits for UK homeowners and businesses? How much does a retrofit cost? And ultimately, is it enough?

These are the questions we'll be exploring in this article to help you understand more about the current green tax incentive, how you can take advantage of it, and why the retrofit route is so important: not just for financial savings but for saving the planet.

What’s the definition of retrofitting?

The definition of a home retrofit is a renovation specifically designed to significantly lower a home's carbon footprint by implementing energy-saving measures that improve your home's thermal efficiency and energy performance rating.

Another term you might come across while researching energy retrofits in the UK is EnerPHit.

What is EnerPHit?

An EnerPHit-certified home renovation is one that attains the highest standards of energy efficiency. If you are familiar with the stringent Passivhaus standards, EnerPHit is a similar standard prescribed for home renovation and extension projects which meet specific energy performance criteria.

While a new build passive homes must not exceed primary energy usage of 15 kilowatt-hours per metre squared per year, an EnerPHit home retrofit must not exceed 25 kilowatt-hours per metre squared per year.

To put these figures into perspective, the average UK home ranges between 160-180 kilowatt-hours per metre squared per year. A retrofit using these energy efficiency measures can drastically reduce your impact on the environment, as well as the cost of running and maintaining your home.

Modernist EnerPHit by RDA Architects

What does the retrofit tax reduction cover?

The UK government has announced potentially significant reductions to the tax rate on specific energy-saving products used on retrofit projects, and for the labour required to install these products as well.

The only catch is that both the products and the installers must be on a government-approved list to qualify for retrofit tax relief.

What retrofit energy-saving measures are eligible for the green tax?

The UK government stated the new green tax is available for the next five years for energy-performance measures classed as "green products," including:

Draught stripping
Solar panels
Heat pumps
Insulation
Heating controls
Combined heat & power systems

How many homes in the UK need retrofitting?

A recent report by Bankers for Net Zero and the Green Finance Institute estimates that we need to retrofit 29 million homes in the UK to reach net-zero by 2050, considering UK homes equate to a massive 23% of our country's carbon footprint.

To further complicate the matter, many current homes in the UK rate poorly for energy performance ratings, giving the UK some of the lowest energy performance rates in Europe.

Instead of building new, we need to focus on making what we already have more energy-efficient to meet our climate targets.

The 5 top benefits of retrofitting houses for energy performance

Until now, the government has offered few incentives for UK homeowners to upgrade the energy performance of their homes.

But with rising fuel costs and the impending threat of climate disaster, if nothing changes, we expect to see more people taking advantage of the many advantages of energy retrofits. There are clear benefits to pursuing a retrofit of your existing home:

1. Fighting climate change

One of the most prominent and crucial benefits of retrofitting your home is to combat the climate change crisis by reducing your home's carbon footprint. Though we don't believe this single government incentive will be enough, it's a step in the right direction.

2. Increasing your home’s value

Energy-efficient homes are cheaper to run, more comfortable, healthy, and more sustainable, and home buyers are beginning to realise this.

Investing in a retrofit to upgrade your home's energy performance is one of the best ways to improve your home's value should you decide to sell it in the future.

3. Combating fuel costs

Over the past few years, and in the last year especially, we've seen dramatic increases in the cost of fuel, making it more expensive than ever to power and heat UK homes. More and more UK consumers are turning to energy retrofits to reduce their energy bills.

Learn more by reading our recent article "Combating rising fuel costs with energy-efficient Passivhaus design."

4. Future-proofing your home

The government already rewards EV owners with a 0% road tax and penalises those who own vehicles with high carbon emissions.

The truth is, it’s only a matter of time before we start seeing tax penalties for homes that are not energy efficient. Retrofitting your home now will help you avoid or reduce those penalties in the future.

5. Improving your comfort

Home energy retrofits contribute not only to a reduced carbon footprint but to a cleaner, healthier, more comfortable living experience, too.

By keeping your home warm, dry, and gas-free via energy-saving measures, you will minimise pollutants, bad air quality, and mould in your home, which can add up to improved health for you and your family.

Modernist EnerPHit by RDA Architects

What is involved in retrofitting your home for energy efficiency?

While every architect may approach home retrofitting projects differently, at RDA Architecture & Interiors, our experience tells us that each retrofit project is unique. No two projects are the same and each project must be treated on a case-by-case basis. However, we always start with research.

Research is the key to understanding an existing building’s secrets. Our research process can give us a number of insights about your home and how we can improve its energy usage, for example:

The history of a building: How old the building is, the plot characteristics, its uses, and how the building has changed over time.
Environmental characteristics: Design factors that contribute to energy efficiency vs reduce energy efficiency in the original building's makeup.
Planning laws and regulations: Understanding any restrictions, and assessing what you are legally allowed to augment, add, and remove.
Embodied carbon analysis: Factoring in the environmental impact and cost of demolishing and building new vs a retrofit of the property.
Heat mapping: Analysing your home using infrared cameras to identify and reduce areas of heat loss in the building envelope.

What happens if our research proves your property isn't a worthy candidate for energy retrofitting? In such a case, we may recommend a new build based on Passivhaus standards. We can even look for opportunities to reduce the carbon footprint of your new building by reusing materials from your current home.

However, if your home is deemed a good candidate for retrofitting, our architecture team will create a detailed brief for the retrofit, outlining all design changes, energy-saving measures, budgets, and estimated energy performance results. Once approved, we'll oversee construction with approved installers.

Want an energy retrofit but not sure where to begin?

If you are not convinced that you are ready for a retrofit or rebuild project just yet, there are many ways you can start improving energy performance. Below we have outlined several improvements to consider for your home, whether you move forward with a retrofit or not:

MVHR units: Preventing heat loss is one of the best ways to retrofit your home. Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery units significantly improve energy efficiency by recirculating the heat from the air and preventing almost all of your home's heat loss. This should be your first consideration, as it’s usually more complicated and requires a deeper retrofit.

Insulation: Insulation is one of the most impactful and vital improvements you can take to make your home more sustainable. It's always best to add insulation to externally facing surfaces, which helps your insulation layer to act as a blanket around your home. Take care that you allow the water moisture to pass through and consider combustibility.

Window glazing: If you have single-glazed windows, consider upgrading them to triple-glazed. When installed properly, these modern windows can help eliminate draughts, a key source of heat loss. When combined with properly framed and fitted doors in your home, these windows can contribute to a virtually draught-proof home.

Please note : If you plan to use an MVHR unit, do not use trickle vents in your windows.

Solar panels: Solar panels are one of the most effective ways to heat, cool, and power your home, using nothing more than the energy of the sun. By installing solar panels, you'll be less reliant on traditional forms of energy, which contribute to global carbon emissions. They can also transfer power directly to your hot water tank, car, or for selling back to the grid.

Heat pumps: Eliminating gas significantly reduces your carbon footprint, making heat pumps a great way to improve your home's energy rating as they are around three times more energy-efficient than a gas boiler.

Modernist EnerPHit by RDA Architects

How much does it cost to retrofit a house in the UK?

Though costs can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your home's energy retrofit project, and the size of your home, in our experience, energy retrofits cost between £800 - £1,000 per square metre plus VAT.

While you'll spend much of your budget on the products themselves, most of your costs will come down to labour, as you'll need specialists trained in sustainable home construction to complete your work.

However, over time the savings you'll earn from reducing your energy bills will greatly outweigh the cost of your retrofit and contribute to zero-carbon targets, all while enjoying a beautiful remodelled home with the RDA touch.

The VAT reductions are fantastic, but they're not enough

To reach our net-zero target and make better headway in the fight against climate change, the UK government needs to take much more drastic and widespread measures to increase the appeal, affordability, and viability of home energy retrofits.

We need a national retrofit strategy on a large scale to experience the surge in consumer buy-in that we need.

We'll only see a retrofit energisation with better incentives for property owners, like reduced interest rates on loans to retrofit a home, tax relief for landlords who want to upgrade their properties, and a greater degree of help, support, and architectural advice for the UK public.

Let RDA Architects guide your retrofit journey to a more sustainable future

Though we've been designing certified Passivhaus homes and buildings since 2010, we've been working at the leading edge of sustainable home design since 1996.

At that time, Richard Dudzicki established RDA to change people's perception of what a home could be, and to prove that energy efficiency and stunning architectural design can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in energy-efficient architectural design for your new or existing home and you want to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, consider scheduling a free Ask the Expert call with Richard, or exploring our site for more information about our services.

The team at RDA Architecture & Interiors is a forward-thinking, industry-leading group of design professionals dedicated to our “Design First, Science Next” approach of creating beautifully responsible homes in the UK. Our goal is to make Passivhaus and EnerPhit the standards, rather than the exceptions, when it comes to designing beautifully modern homes that are healthier for you, your family, and our environment.

How To Combat Rising Fuel Costs With Passivhaus Design

Thu, 26 May 2022 20:52:40 GMT

Combating rising fuel costs with energy-efficient Passivhaus design

It's safe to say we've all been affected by the unimaginable spikes in fuel costs as of late. These increases, coupled with the current cost of living crisis in the UK, are a match made in hell as people struggle to keep up with their energy bills.

Many of us tend to overlook the simple truth, our homes, and more specifically, how they are designed are the reason we have those energy bills in the first place. It's time we all pulled up our sleeves and started to get serious about combating rising fuel costs in the UK, and we get serious about energy-efficient Passivhaus design.

The facts are clear, the energy price cap increased as of 1 April, 2022, for approximately 22 million customers across Britain. With that price cap rise of 54%, those on default tariffs paying by direct debit can expect to see an increase of £693 from £1,277 to £1,971 per year (difference due to rounding), according to Ofgem , while prepayment customers will see an increase of £708 from £1,309 to £2,017. And with the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, those figures are only getting higher.

One crucial solution to combat this ever-growing problem and lessen the impact on everyday households is the prioritisation of Passivhaus design. Energy-efficient homes are not only a critical factor in resolving the climate crisis but provide a solution to the fuel crisis too. With around 13% of UK households in what's known as "fuel poverty" (those who can't afford to keep their home adequately heated) in 2020 ( Gov.UK ), it's more important than ever that we look at ways of reducing energy consumption - especially with the current fuel crisis. Passive home design is an essential component to reaching that goal.

But what exactly are Passive homes?

According to The Passivhaus Trust : “Passivhaus buildings provide a high level of occupant comfort using very little energy for heating and cooling. Passivhaus adopts a whole-building approach with clear, measured targets, focused on high-quality construction, certified through an exacting quality assurance process.”

All certified Passivhaus buildings undergo a rigorous compliance process administered by a registered Passivhaus Certifier.

As a dedicated Passivhaus architecture firm that’s been designing energy-efficient homes for over 25 years, and with more than 200 projects under our belt, it’s safe to say that pushing Passivhaus in response to the climate and fuel crisis is something we’re deeply devoted to.

The results we’ve seen in our projects alone have been staggering, achieving a massive 80-82% reduction in energy bills. Just imagine what we could achieve if every new home being built had to be a passive home by English law?

By lowering the average home's energy consumption, homeowners can counteract rapidly inflating fuel costs and enjoy immense savings on their energy bills.

In this article, we explore Passivhaus design in detail, outlining the many benefits of its core building design principles.

The fundamental principles of Passivhaus design

When designed and built to the exacting Passivhaus standards , a typical family house will consume up to 90% less energy for heating and cooling and up to 70% less energy in general than traditional buildings. But how do we, as Passivhaus architects, actually achieve this? It comes down to the following core principles:

Airtightness

At RDA, we perform a series of air pressure tests throughout construction to minimise air leakages. By precisely sealing every window and door, we eliminate drafts and create a completely airtight property. With less warm air leaking out or cold air filtering in, it takes far less energy to heat or cool a building and helps maintain an even, comfortable temperature.

We even use "smoke pencils," which are essentially large incense sticks that blow smoke and help identify where even the tiniest of air leaks occur in the home.

Ventilation

Traditionally people use a combination of opening windows or doors and extractor fans to improve ventilation. But these methods aren't energy efficient because you're losing heat every time you open a window. We install mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems that provide a continuous supply of warm filtered air to reduce energy consumption.

These systems work by channelling your stale indoor air through a "heat exchange system." Indoor air is passed through an air duct outside, while the mechanical ventilation system sucks fresh air back in.

The magic happens when the fresh air coming in takes on the heat of the warm air leaving your home, giving you perfect ventilation without opening windows - reducing the need to use energy to heat your home again once you've let cool air inside. This fresh air comes in filtered as well, reducing the pollen, particulates, and pollution introduced into your home. Of course, if you do want to open a window, go ahead! With a Passive house design, it will take less time to return to your ideal comfortable temperature when you close the window.

Insulation

The UK government has only recently announced that they're bringing in new building regulations around the continuity of insulation. Heavily insulating buildings is one of the core ways passive homes use less energy by retaining the heat. Though at RDA, we've been applying this principle for over a decade, the UK government is slow to catch up.

Frustratingly, this is not good enough. Passivhaus is a proven formula to drastically reduce a home's energy consumption and, therefore, carbon emissions, and it only works when we use all the principles in unison. So with governments not approaching energy-efficient buildings holistically, we risk lagging behind our target of being net-zero by 2050.

Thermal mass

Thermal mass relates to how quickly or slowly the materials in your property take to heat up, and lose heat. Considering the differences in building materials – such as brick vs timber – and using materials that are specifically designed to absorb, store, and release heat more efficiently (like concrete) helps us maintain an even, comfortable temperature in a building – meaning less reliance on A/C or heating systems.

Moisture

The more humidity in your home, the harder it is to maintain an even temperature. So, the drier your property is, the more energy-efficient it will be, as you are heating or cooling drier air. A core element of Passivhaus design is minimising the moisture and condensation present in your home with proper ventilation, heat recovery systems, insulation, and airtightness.

As a building becomes more airtight, moisture control becomes critically important, as condensation can form on the walls, allowing black mould and other bacteria to thrive. At RDA, we carry out interstitial condensation calculations as we design and build homes to determine any potential for moisture build-up and avoid these problems.

Shading

We typically build passive homes to bring in as much natural light as possible through well-insulated triple glazed windows, doors, skylights, and canopies. However, these can sometimes cause a home to overheat in the Summer.

To balance this, we ensure the orientation and shape of your property have adequate shading to cool it down in the hot temperatures - reducing the need to open windows or turn on the A/C.

Recycling

An important aspect of passive house design is prioritising recycling pre-existing building materials. This principle mainly applies to renovations, retrofitting old homes, and extensions. Instead of using more energy to produce new materials, we will reuse what you already have where possible.

The principles that make your passive home a Passivhaus

Technically, a building is certified as a Passivhaus when it achieves an annual heating and cooling demand of no more than 15 kilowatts/m2 per year, or a maximum peak load of 10W/m2. The total energy consumption – that is the total 'primary' energy used for heating, lighting, hot water, power – must not exceed 120kWh/m2 per year.

By maintaining a comfortable temperature with better airtightness, ventilation, shading, and thermal mass, and by reducing moisture, the passive homes RDA designs can achieve this standard, helping you significantly reduce energy consumption and costs.

And it's more cost-effective than ever to take action on sustainable home design. With the UK government recently dropping the 20% VAT on several green goods that make homes more energy-efficient, there's never been a better time to join the Passivhaus movement, cut costs, and enjoy a beautifully designed, comfortable, and sustainable home.

At RDA, we are so committed to Passivhaus design, we've even created our own passive home indicator score. Find out more about our Passive Home Indicator Scoring System .

We'd love to be a part of your Passivhaus journey.

Though we’ve been designing certified Passivhaus buildings since 2010, we've been working at the leading edge of sustainable home design since 1996. Our founder, Richard Dudzicki established RDA to change people’s perception on what a home could be, to show that energy-efficiency and stunning architectural design can go hand in hand.

And he doesn’t just “Talk the Talk.” Richard is both an active participant in the fight against climate change and designer of his very own passive Enerphit home – in fact, his own home is the first commercial-to-residential conversion in the UK, and was featured on Channel4's Extraordinary Extensions . Richard and the entire RDA team are paving the way for building cleaner homes that make energy-efficiency possible, profitable, and beautiful - inside and out.

If you're interested in Passivhaus design for your home and would like to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, please get in touch .

Richard’s Passivhaus Renovation Featured on Channel 4

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:50:00 GMT

Extraordinary Extensions Visits Richard Dudzicki's Passivhaus Home

As you may have already seen, Channel 4 recently featured RDA’s Richard Dudzicki, on their programme Extraordinary Extensions , hosted by none other than Tinie Tempah. It was a privilege to be featured on such an inspiring series that celebrates distinctive home transformations.

As one of the top Passivhaus specialists in the UK, Richard was delighted to share his passion for sustainable design by inviting Tinie on-site in London, during the later stages of the project.

Over the past six years, Richard and his wife Eva have transformed a 19th-century industrial workshop into an eco-friendly, family-friendly home that's four times more energy-efficient than typical new residential builds. Utilising several key principles of sustainable design, Richard demonstrates his true passion and commitment to living sustainably and responsibly.

As Richard and Eva explain in the show, they wanted to bring in as much light as possible to their modern industrial home. The combination of strategically placed triple glazed windows, skylights, and advanced insulation keeps their home at a perfect temperature all year round, without the need for traditional heating or gas.

Using breathable paint, they reduce the moisture and condensation in the building, helping to insulate their breathtaking home even further. There's nothing cold about their magnificent design, with a unique curved ceiling in their extension, warm tones, and bright accents. Every Passivhaus element works harmoniously for a cosy, warm, and relaxing feel.

Richard's dedication to the Passivhaus movement isn’t strictly a professional commitment, it’s a personal one as well. It’s also one that extends to our entire team and clients as we all work together towards a common goal; to take effective action in the fight against climate change.

RDA architects are devoted to innovative home design grounded in sustainable, science-backed solutions that deliver unexpected benefits to our clients. We design homes that express your priorities and vision on the inside while addressing the needs of the future on the outside.

As leaders in the Passivhaus movement in the UK, we embrace our role to push the building envelope, make more from less, solve complex problems, and use our expertise and experience to lead our clients to a better way of living. Eco bling and greenwashing aren't good enough; we want to help you design a home that fits your style, but is cleaner, and more energy efficient as well.

If you're interested in Passivhaus design and would like to learn more about our sustainable residential architecture and interior design services, get in touch with us today.

Dudzicki X Ramsay on the TALKdesign podcast

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:34:00 GMT

Richard Dudzicki speaks with Adrian Ramsay

Richard Dudzicki joins Adrian Ramsay on the TALKdesign podcast. The two architects discuss the creative industry and how RDA are doing their part to design a better future.

Passivhaus & EnerPhit on Architecture Today Conversations

richard@rdauk.com (Richard Dudzicki) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:34:00 GMT

Richard Dudzicki Discusses EnerPHit, Passivhaus, building regulations, and policy

Marion Baeli and Richard Dudzicki in conversation with Isabel Allen - Passivhaus design, retrofitting buildings to EnerPhit standards, tensions, and contradictions within building regulations and planning policy and the urgent need for central government to up its game.

Click here to listen to the conversation.

On-Site with Richard - 19th Century Passivhaus

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:33:00 GMT

EnerPHit Project Site Visit with Richard Dudzicki of RDA

We’re back again, on-site with Richard. From the scrapyard to a family home, this 19th-century brick building has been brought up to EnerPHit standards making it a carbon-neutral home.

On-Site with Richard - 60s Family House

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:33:00 GMT

EnerPHit Renovation Site Visit with Richard Dudzicki of RDA

In this video, we join RDA Principal Architect, Richard Dudzicki, who is on-site at a 1960s era home we are currently transforming from a poorly performing house to a modern and highly efficient EnerPHit home, all while saving money, time, and the environment.

On-Site with Richard - Arts & Crafts Passivhaus

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 03:33:00 GMT

Passivhaus Site Visit with Richard Dudzicki of RDA

RDA Principal architect, Richard Dudzicki, explains, how this new build home honours the Arts & Crafts vernacular but is built to 21st century standards; with an airtight CLT frame, MVHR system, and triple-glazed Passivhaus windows.