[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” padding_top_1=”80px” padding_top_bottom_link_1=”false” padding_left_right_link_1=”false” admin_label=”Intro” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ custom_padding=”3px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Montserrat|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”64px” title_line_height=”1.2em” title_font_size_tablet=”50px” title_font_size_phone=”24px” title_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_post_title][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_line_height=”1.8em” max_width=”600px” module_alignment=”center” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
The Met Office State of UK Climate 2024, published in July 2025, had one consistent and clear message: the UK\u2019s climate is fundamentally changing and at a rate that is shockingly fast. Baselines are shifting. Records are regularly broken. Extreme temperatures are frequent and more intense. Climate change is no longer the future but the present.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#00C4CC” text_orientation=”center” width=”100%” max_width=”600px” module_alignment=”center” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n [To Download a FREE PDF of this guide scroll to the end]<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/00-sunny-sky.jpg” alt=”00 sunny sky” title_text=”00 sunny sky” admin_label=”Image 00″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”|-9vw|||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Quote Section” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ffffff 70%|#00c4cc 70%” background_color_gradient_start=”#ffffff” background_color_gradient_start_position=”70%” background_color_gradient_end=”#00c4cc” background_color_gradient_end_position=”0%” custom_padding=”50px||3px||false|false” background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_color_gradient_stops_phone=”#ffffff 95%|#00c4cc 95%” background_color_gradient_start_position_phone=”95%” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ max_width=”900px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/magazine-18.png” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”||50px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”Cardo||||||||” text_text_color=”#2a2a2a” text_font_size=”42px” text_line_height=”1.4em” text_orientation=”right” text_font_size_tablet=”36px” text_font_size_phone=”24px” text_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]Baselines are shifting. Records are regularly broken. Extreme temperatures are frequent and more intense. Climate change is no longer the future but the present. <\/p>\n My own \u2018state of the UK climate\u2019 has been measured through my conservatory. Constructed in the 1990s, this edifice to UPVC has delivered summertime internal temperatures of over 50\u00b0C in the past couple of years. The rest of my house had been rendered uninhabitable during heatwaves because of it. Thankfully, we waved goodbye to our conservatory this year and replaced it with a pergola and fabric sails that we can put up during hot spells. The fact that, only 30 years ago, we used to shelter in conservatories to avoid a chilly summer breeze, and now we bake in them, goes to show that we really need to pay attention to how we develop our buildings going forward. What we construct now will easily stand for the next 60 years. If our climate is warming this much over a 30 year period, I dread to think what it will be like in 2055 or 2085.<\/span><\/p>\n So, what should we be doing as building designers? I\u2019ve put together 5x hints and tips that we should be looking to implement now when designing our buildings to ensure that they are fit for a fiery future. My thanks goes to Richard Bendy of The Healthy Home Ltd for contributing to discussions and providing feedback.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip 1: Plan the building and rooms to suit their orientation” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Think about strategically placing rooms to suit their use and heating\/cooling needs. This is especially important for new build properties, where there is a golden opportunity to create a compact form with well orientated rooms from the start and avoid common long term climate related issues.<\/span><\/p>\n Here are some basic tips for planning domestic properties in the UK:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/02-Shading-for-Housing-Design-Guide-image.jpg” alt=”02 Shading for Housing Design Guide image” title_text=”02 Shading for Housing Design Guide image” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 01″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”80%” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n By aligning room placement with solar orientation, a building can naturally regulate its temperature, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling and ensuring a comfortable indoor environment year-round.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip 2: Install less glazing; especially on the east and west elevations” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Contemporary responsible design responds to the environment; both the social context of our built environment as well as the natural environment.<\/p>\n As a northern hemisphere country, our sun rises in the east and sets in the west with the midday sun to the south. As the sun rises and sets, it tracks along at an angled trajectory in the sky that varies throughout the year. This makes windows facing east and west difficult to passively shade. One option is to cover the window with a temporary sail during hot weather. You could also use DesignPH and other passivhaus tools to design vertical shading that can mitigate overheating.<\/span><\/p>\n However, one solution that is encouraged with the Passivhaus method is to reduce east and west glazing as much as possible. As general guideline, the percentage of glazed wall area should be approximately:<\/span><\/p>\n You will note that these figures broadly correspond to Part O: the approved document that regulates the amount of glazing in new build residential properties to mitigate against overheating; depending on the location and broad ventilation strategy. These figures are a starting point and could be refined through the use of the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) to model the specific building design, location and materials.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The key principles are to:<\/span><\/p>\n When glazing is 4-6x times the economic cost of opaque wall elements, and also carries a significantly higher environmental cost, it is important to consider the placement of glazing carefully to ensure that it is delivering a high value experience for the client.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Whilst Part O only applies to new build residential buildings, this does not mean we should ignore all other building types. When looking at our design industry more broadly, we have a problem with overglazing our buildings. Relatively modest home extensions receive very large areas of glass without any consideration for the impact on the internal environment. Office buildings include huge south facing atrium spaces and everyone appears to be surprised when they overheat. Such designs lead to stuffy interiors in the summer and cold spaces in winter that need to be offset with higher heating bills.<\/span><\/p>\n As designers, we should be looking at our buildings holistically and not just focusing on extensions or alterations in isolation. We should be engaging the client in conversations around building-wide climate resilience, shading and heating strategies. In my experience, this has often led to a widening of the brief and a more comprehensive architectural solution.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/08-Tip-2-Building-E-W.jpg” alt=”08 Tip 2 Building E W” title_text=”08 Tip 2 Building E W” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 08″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”left” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip 3: Create opportunities for external shading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The placement of window blinds is an essential part of an overheating strategy. The difference in heat gain between internal and external shading is substantial, with external blinds offering a more effective barrier against the sun\u2019s heat.<\/p>\n To quantify this difference, we can look at the G-value. This metric indicates how much of the sun’s heat can pass through the glass. It is a scale from 0 to 1, with a lower number meaning less solar heat gets through. For example, a window with a G-value of 0.5 lets in 50% of the sun’s heat.<\/span><\/p>\n The ideal G-value depends on where you live and which way your windows are facing. In colder environments, a higher G-value is good for south-facing windows to get as much free heat from the sun as possible. Conversely, a lower G-value is better for warmer climates to keep the house from getting too hot.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n A standard double-glazed window without any shading typically has a G-value ranging from 0.42 to 0.59. This means that 42% to 59% of the solar radiation striking the window is transmitted inside as heat. A light-coloured internal blind can reduce the effective G-value of a double-glazed window to approximately 0.35. A light-coloured external blind can lower the effective G-value to as little as 0.09 (source: BRE – Summertime Performance of Windows with Shading Devices). In practical terms, this means that a window with an internal blind allows roughly four times more heat to enter a building compared to a window with an external blind.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/03-solaria-hdpe-maanta.jpg” alt=”03 solaria-hdpe maanta” title_text=”03 solaria-hdpe maanta” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 03″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Image Caption” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Solar Sail by Maanta<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n External solar shading does not need to be expensive or complex. Examples could include:<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Other key considerations include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For more information on shading, <\/span>take a look at this handy guide<\/span><\/a> from the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n This not only applies to new construction but buildings of all types including within heritage environments. There is plenty of evidence to show that external shutters and shades have been a common part of our built environment for centuries. As an example, take a look at the image below of Cavendish Crescent in Bath (c. 1890). Nearly all of the buildings have external shutters. Some also have first floor awnings to protect very large sections of south facing glass from the sun. Similar photos exist for London, Edinburgh and many more places besides. External shading was once commonplace in the UK and, like in many parts of southern Europe, it should be again.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/04-Cavendish-Crescent-Edited.jpg” alt=”04 Cavendish Crescent Edited” title_text=”04 Cavendish Crescent Edited” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 04″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Image Caption” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Cavendish Crescent, Bath (photographed in 1890. Source: The Holbourne Museum)<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/05-BTS240269_23_l_gal.jpg” alt=”05 BTS240269_23_l_gal” title_text=”05 BTS240269_23_l_gal” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 05″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Image Caption” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Spot the difference: Cavendish Crescent today (Source: Savills)<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip 4: Choose insulation wisely” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n When it comes to the thermal properties of building fabric, it\u2019s important to not only think in U-values but also in terms of thermal storage capacity.\u00a0<\/p>\n Buildings that are constructed from a lightweight fabric are susceptible to increased temperatures in the summer months; particularly in attic spaces. This means that they will overheat quickly on hot days.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n By contrast, materials with a high thermal storage capacity can be utilised to absorb heat and act as a \u2018buffer\u2019 in delaying the progress of the heat to the internal fabric during the day. This process is known as phase shift or decrement delay. It is the time taken (measured in hours) for heat from the outside of a building to transfer through the insulation to the inside. It is a measure of how effectively an insulation material delays the flow of heat, particularly during periods of peak external temperature (ie: heatwaves).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n A good insulation for this application is woodfibre board. Woodfibre board insulation is dense, which gives it a high thermal mass and heat storage capacity. Steico, one of the leading suppliers of woodfibre board insulation, has supplied phase shift data for all of their woodfibre board build-ups. A standard 200mm timber rafter, packed with flexible woodfibre board and overlaid with a 40mm woodfibre sarking board will deliver a 14hr phase shift through a roof. This means it will take 14 hours for a heat wave to travel through the material.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/06-heat-movement.jpeg” alt=”06 heat movement” title_text=”06 heat movement” align=”center” admin_label=”Image 06″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Image Caption” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This is a great diagram explaining phase shift (or decrement delay) from Greenspec. [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n To apply this to a real world example, imagine a hot sunny day where the outside temperature peaks at around 2pm. The peak temperature wave that hits the exterior of the building at 2pm would not reach the interior until 14 hours later, at 4am the next morning. By 4am, the outside temperature has fallen significantly. With effective ventilation to allow the excess heat to purge out of the insulation, this means that when the delayed heat finally enters the building, it easily dissipates and the internal temperature never reaches a high, uncomfortable level.<\/span><\/p>\n Of course, the specification of insulation should be balanced with a number of other constraints:<\/span><\/p>\n Achieving year-round thermal comfort requires a more nuanced approach than simply focusing on U-values. The choice of insulation insulation material is a balancing act. Woodfibre offers exceptional protection against summer heat and boasts strong environmental credentials, but it’s not suitable for all applications, particularly where fire resistance or moisture exposure is a primary concern. Conversely, mineral wool provides excellent fire and acoustic performance, and plastic insulations offer the highest thermal resistance in limited spaces. Therefore, a holistic design strategy is essential, one that carefully weighs the competing demands of a project\u2014from fire safety and spatial constraints to moisture control and seasonal temperature swings\u2014to specify the most appropriate material for a truly high-performing, resilient and comfortable building.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”left” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip 5: Install active cooling (or plan for it)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We can do a lot to mitigate against overheating but, despite all of what I have suggested so far, if climate change is going to result in consistent and long dry periods of weather where the outside temperature is regularly in excess of 25\u00b0C, we are going to have to look at incorporating active cooling as part of everyday life.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are numerous ways in which this can be achieved including:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/07-NIBE_ASHP_SpringMeadow-scaled-e1600954824826-2048×1364-1.jpg” alt=”07 NIBE_ASHP_SpringMeadow-scaled-e1600954824826-2048×1364″ title_text=”07 NIBE_ASHP_SpringMeadow-scaled-e1600954824826-2048×1364″ align=”center” admin_label=”Image 07″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”80%” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text Cont.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In discussion with Richard Bendy at The Healthy Home Ltd, out of all of these options, we concluded that air-to-air is the least complex solution that delivers the best results. Using a reversible heat pump, and running cool water through the radiators, sounds good in principle but introduces additional equipment into the system and does not deliver a great deal of cooling because of the condensation risk. Conventional air conditioning and fan coil systems are noisier and less efficient than air-to-air heatpumps; which are low cost, widely used and also recyclable. <\/span><\/p>\n One concern around large scale active cooling adoption is the impact on the national grid. A study from the German Passivhaus Institute argues that for energy-efficient buildings, this fear is unfounded. Modern, efficient air conditioning units have low power demands that align perfectly with the surplus electricity generated by solar panels during sunny summer days, making the impact on the grid “negligibly small.” (See Passivpedia \u201cShould active cooling be avoided?\u201d – August 2025). However, it\u2019s important to note that the reason PHI is relaxed about cooling is that in a Passivhaus cooling loads are exceedingly low in warm\/cool temperate climates and only for a matter of days per year at the moment.<\/p>\n That is not the case with Britain’s largely inefficient housing stock. Industry bodies project that a surge in domestic air conditioning could create new summer peak demand, straining the grid, increasing vulnerability to faults and forcing the use of expensive and polluting coal “peaker” plants to meet the shortfall. In a House of Commons Committee Report (Heat resilience and sustainable cooling), the National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) confirmed that coal-fired power stations were brought into service in both 2022 and 2023 to balance the electricity system during summer demand electricity peaks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n One solution is to pair active cooling systems with on-site solar PV generation and battery storage.\u00a0 A typical domestic solar array could generate a significant amount of excess electricity in summer. In principle, this surplus power should be more than enough to run a home’s active cooling system in a way that is both environmentally and economically efficient, mitigating the strain on the national grid by using clean, self-generated power precisely when it’s needed most.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The key takeaway from these studies is that:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||20px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Climate mitigation applies to all scales of construction” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It\u2019s easy to think that sustainable and climate resilient design applies only to showcase schemes: bespoke projects that are designed to achieve the highest energy efficiency standards possible. However, the vast majority of us will not have the opportunity to live in these types of buildings. We have millions of homes that need to be adapted and homeowners are looking to designers to take the lead and advise them on how best to prepare.\u00a0<\/p>\n Whether you are designing a single storey extension or a new build commercial scheme, it is important to push a whole building and future proofing agenda. A few helpful hints and tips will allow building owners to reframe how they treat their buildings and lead us towards a positive and heat proof future.<\/span><\/p>\n More widely, I am starting to see cultural shifts quietly taking place within our society. During the summer, I noticed a few contractors starting to take a siesta after lunch to avoid the worst of the midday heat. Historic England has published advice notes that support a whole building approach, including the use of external shading on listed buildings (see Historic England Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency – July 2024). Finally, in an age of chronic housing supply shortages, homeowners are interested in taking a longer term view in how they treat their homes and are keen to ensure that they will continue to provide a safe and comfortable environment for their kids, as well as themselves. I cannot help but feel a certain \u2018Frenchness\u2019 about this; a quiet goodbye to the era of huddling from the drizzle in glass boxes. For centuries, our stiff upper lips were matched by our draughty windows. Now, we’re learning to unbutton our collars and borrow a few sun-drenched secrets from our neighbours across the Channel.<\/span><\/p>\n The challenge, then, isn’t just about G-values and phase shifts; it’s about shifting our mindset from merely surviving the weather to designing a better climate for ourselves. So let’s raise a glass (of something cold, preferably under a well-placed pergola) to a new generation of British buildings: cooler, cleverer, and finally ready for their moment in the sun.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”left” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ admin_label=”Lead magnet form” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Download the Guide” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_color_all=”#00C4CC” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/49-Architectural-Design-Tips-for-a-Changing-Climate.jpg” alt=”49 Architectural Design Tips for a Changing Climate” title_text=”49 Architectural Design Tips for a Changing Climate” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”50%” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_blur=”10px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#00C4CC” divider_weight=”5px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Related Reading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||100px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Starting-Out-in-Sustainable-Design.jpg” alt=”Starting Out in Sustainable Design” title_text=”Starting Out in Sustainable Design” url=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/starting-out-in-sustainable-design\/” url_new_window=”on” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”90%” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/47-The-Use-and-Benefits-of-Thermographic-Imaging.jpg” alt=”47 The Use and Benefits of Thermographic Imaging” title_text=”47 The Use and Benefits of Thermographic Imaging” url=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/the-use-and-benefits-of-thermographic-imaging\/” url_new_window=”on” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”90%” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/21-Designing-for-UK-Exposure-Zones.jpg” alt=”21 Designing for UK Exposure Zones” title_text=”21 Designing for UK Exposure Zones” url=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/designing-for-uk-exposure-zones\/” url_new_window=”on” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”90%” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ admin_label=”Rich Tyers Author Bio” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”||||false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/detail-library.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Rich-Tyers-Profile-Image.png” alt=”Rich Tyers Profile Image” title_text=”Rich Tyers Profile Image” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”50%” custom_padding=”20px||||false|false” border_radii=”on|100%|100%|100%|100%” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Author” icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”99%” content_max_width=”1100px” admin_label=”Author bio” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ width=”100%” max_width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_padding=”|75px|||false|false” image_max_width=”99%” global_colors_info=”{}”]Written by Rich Tyers, a sustainability-focused Architect and Passivhaus Designer with over 15 years of experience in environmentally responsible design and construction. His practice works on climate resilient retrofits, energy conscious homes and public sector projects. Fabric Sails by Maanta<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n Heat Pumps by NuHeat<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n
\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider divider_weight=”6px” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”5 Ways to Keep Homes Cool in the UK” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”75px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n5 Ways to Keep Homes Cool in the UK<\/h2>\n
Tip 1: Plan the building and rooms to suit their orientation<\/h3>\n
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Tip 2: Install less glazing; especially on the east and west elevations<\/h3>\n
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Tip 3: Create opportunities for external shading<\/h3>\n
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Tip 4: Choose insulation wisely<\/h3>\n
\nCheck out the full article <\/span><\/i>here<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n\n
Tip 5: Install active cooling (or plan for it)<\/h3>\n
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Climate mitigation applies to all scales of construction<\/h2>\n
Download the Guide<\/h2>\n
Related Reading<\/h2>\n
\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Images and Other Credits” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\nImages and Other Credits<\/h3>\n