Our Process

Sustainability

OLS sustainable architecture

OLS Architects are committed to Sustainable Design and Construction.

OLS Architects are IGBC Certified HPI Assessors (Home Performance Index). We also employ three Certified Passive House Designers and specialise in low-carbon Energy Efficient designs. We work with LEED and BREEAM consultants to deliver the highest standards in Energy Efficiency when required. In addition to the Environmental benefits, Sustainable and durable designs also lower operational costs through reduced energy consumption and maintenance needs, offering financial benefits over time.

Some examples of how our team try to incorporate energy-efficient design solutions where possible:

  1. Control & Reduce Construction Waste by preparing a project specific Construction & Environmental Waste Management Plan.
  2. Minimise the projects carbon footprint by using Low-carbon GGBS Concrete and reducing the amount of steel in the structure through clever structural engineering design.
  3. Use locally sourced, sustainable natural building materials where possible.
  4. External building fabric: Increase insulation levels and window performance to reduce heating demand.
  5. Design to maximise solar gain in winter and prevent overheating in summer. This may involve the use of solar glazing on the south elevation and high-performance glazing on the north elevation.
  6. Use renewable energy systems – Solar PV & Air to Water Heat Pump to generate electricity heating and hot water.
  7. We are passionate about biodiversity and pollinator friendly planting. Rather than vast areas of tarmacadam and concrete, we can propose more biodiversity friendly solutions such as grass pavers, and perennial planting to comply with the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan.
  8. Look for opportunities to incorporate swift boxes and bee bricks.
  9. Use Nature Based drainage systems such as Tree Pits, Swales and Permeable Paving where possible.