
Athelhampton Zero: A Landmark in Sustainable Heritage Renovation
Our work to complete Athelhampton House as a carbon neutral Grade I Tudor manor house, saving 100 tonnes of carbon annually is the Winner of the Decarbonisation and Net Zero Category at the AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards in London 2024.
Project Overview:
Athelhampton Zero, a transformative project by SPASE Design, has redefined sustainability within a Grade I listed Tudor manor house. The initiative achieves carbon neutrality by replacing outdated fossil fuel systems with innovative technologies, including a 130kW photovoltaic array, 12 Tesla batteries, and multiple heat pump systems (4x GSHPs and 15x ASHPs).
Impact:
This ambitious modernisation not only meets modern energy needs but also significantly reduces carbon emissions by 100 tonnes annually, alongside saving £100,000 in energy costs each year.
Judging Panel Insights:
The judges were impressed by the project's educational component, highlighting its role in sharing knowledge about sustainability in heritage contexts. Athelhampton Zero has been presented to notable organisations, including the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings and Historic Royal Palaces, showcasing its commitment to public engagement and advocacy for sustainable practices.
Quotes from Judges:
- “This project truly maximised the potential within the historic constraints of the property.”
- “The proactive sharing of their experience could serve as a model for others.”
- “We were looking for something exceptional and this project really was.”
Project Team:
- Client: Athelhampton House
- Structural Engineer: Mann Williams
- Services Engineer: Mabey Francis
- Main Contractor: H2Eco, Empower Energy
Conclusion:
Athelhampton Zero stands as a pioneering example of how heritage sites can embrace sustainability, setting a benchmark for future projects aiming to balance historic preservation with modern energy efficiency.
See all the winners on the Architects' Journal website.