Client: Hill Investment Partnerships & Cambridge City Council
Services: MEP Design | Passivhaus Consultancy | Sustainability Strategy | RIBA Stages: 1–5
Overview
As part of the Cambridge Investment Partnership (CIP) programme, QODA is delivering MEP and Passivhaus consultancy for Aylesborough Close Phase 2, a development providing 70 affordable homes across three sites, alongside a community garden with play equipment and seating. The project reflects CIP’s ambition to create low-carbon, socially sustainable communities in Cambridge.
Project vision
The objective is to deliver affordable, energy-efficient homes that prioritise comfort, wellbeing, and sustainability. Every design decision—from building form to services strategy—has been optimised to achieve Passivhaus Classic certification, ensuring long-term performance and resilience.
Key features
Passivhaus Classic Standard:
Rigorous energy performance for ultra-low heating demand.
Fabric-First Design:
- High insulation levels and airtightness.
- Optimised window sizes and depths for daylight and thermal performance.
- Solar shading and louvres for secure ventilation and overheating mitigation.
QODA’s role
QODA’s role included leading the Passivhaus strategy through PHPP modelling and energy performance analysis to meet certification requirements. We delivered efficient, low-carbon MEP designs that were fully integrated with the architectural intent, ensuring both comfort and compliance. Throughout the project, QODA worked closely with BPTW Architects and Hill Group to align architectural, structural, and building services strategies, enabling a coordinated and performance-led delivery.
Impact
Aylesborough Close Phase 2 demonstrates how affordable housing can achieve world-class energy standards without compromising on comfort or community. This project is part of a wider CIP initiative delivering 775+ Passivhaus homes across nine sites, setting a new benchmark for sustainable housing in the UK.
Related projects
Guild House – Complex Office-to-Residential Conversion
Guild House – Complex Office-to-Residential Conversion
Read More
Knole House – Heritage Conservation and Visitor Experience Transformation
Knole House – Heritage Conservation and Visitor Experience Transformation
Read More
Jumbo Water Tower – Heritage Restoration & Community Hub
Jumbo Water Tower – Heritage Restoration & Community Hub
Read More
Samuel Pepys Library & Sustainability Strategy – Magdalene College, Cambridge
