‘The Place’, Climate Innovation District, Leeds

LEDA have a longstanding relationship with Leeds-based developer Citu, who specialise in low energy, low carbon buildings which are prefabricated on site in a purpose-built manufacturing facility on one of their sites in Leeds. Their design approach is underpinned by sustainability, using timber frames, pre-insulated panels, recycled materials and sustainable low energy technology. One of our most recent projects for Citu, ‘The Place’ is Leeds’ first net zero carbon commercial building.

LEDA designed the building to Passive House principles, aiming to minimise energy usage prior to looking at offsetting. We carried out energy modelling to estimate predicted energy usage and U values, particularly for the windows. The office environment creates high internal gains so we looked at the most effective and appropriate method of comfort cooling – as natural ventilation would be insufficient we specified MVHR systems. With PV generated power coming from adjacent buildings, the rooftop PV was sacrificed to make room for rooftop leisure facilities including a tennis court.

We are also undertaking post-occupancy evaluation to benchmark the in-use energy consumption of the building and inform future design.

Client:	CITU
Services Provided:	Sustainability advice, Detailed M&E Design
Dates:	November 2019 – ongoing
Construction Value:	Approx. £6m