Architect: Stride Treglown
Services: Passivhaus Consultancy, MEP Design
Overview
Purdown View is a pioneering £80m regeneration project at UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus and the UK’s largest certified Passivhaus development. The scheme delivers 900 fossil fuel-free, net-zero student rooms, replacing outdated, carbon-intensive stock while increasing capacity on the same site by 3.5 times.
This project is more than a construction milestone—it’s a game-changer for sustainable student living, setting a gold standard for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) in the UK.
Project vision
The goal was to create comfortable, modern, and environmentally responsible accommodation that aligns with UWE’s 2030 zero-carbon target. The design prioritises student wellbeing, energy efficiency, and long-term resilience, embedding sustainability into every aspect of the development.
Key features
Passivhaus Classic Certification:
- Space heating demand <15 kWh/m²/year
- Airtightness <0.6 air changes/hr
- Zero fossil fuel systems
Market-Leading Sustainability KPIs:
- 81% reduction in energy use per bed
- 79% cut in operational carbon emissions per room
- Fabric-First Design: High insulation, airtightness, and optimised form factor.
Renewable Energy & Low-Carbon Systems:
- Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) for domestic hot water.
- Smart-controlled electric panel heaters for space heating.
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR).
- Roof-mounted PV panels.
Innovation & Delivery:
Bespoke Certification Criteria: Developed in collaboration with the Passivhaus Institute in Germany for high-density student accommodation.
Rigorous Testing: Vinci Construction invested in mock-up testing at its technology centre to validate airtightness and envelope performance before site works.
QODA’s role
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Passivhaus Leadership: Led PHPP modelling and energy strategy for certification.
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MEP Design: Delivered low-carbon building services integrated with architectural design.
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Collaboration: Worked closely with Stride Treglown, Vinci Construction, and the wider team to ensure performance-led delivery.
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Planning Support: Developed Energy and Sustainability Statements for approvals.
Impact
Purdown View is redefining the future of student housing:
- 900 fossil fuel-free rooms
- Net-zero operational performance
- Significant carbon savings
- Enhanced student wellbeing
This project proves that net zero isn’t an add-on—it’s the starting point for creating sustainable, student-focused communities.
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