A mechanical services engineer by training, during my time at Arup I have advised architects and clients on how to reduce energy demand in buildings and at a larger scale masterplan level, how to use energy efficiently in the buildings themselves (all sectors) and renewable technologies, as well as broader aspects of sustainability, such as wellbeing, social value, acoustics, water conservation and green  infrastructure, for example – whether through recognized protocols such as LEED, BREEAM and WELL, or using a holistic design approach. 

Closing the Performance Gap

I am deeply passionate about closing the “performance gap”, the difference between the actual performance of a building in operation compared with the designer’s intended modus operandi, as has been highlighted through Post Occupancy Evaluations on many of our past projects.

This is why I am also a certified Passivhaus designer, the only comfort and energy standard with a proven track record of reducing energy consumption in buildings by 70-90%. I am also keen to implement circular economy principles and generally to make construction a more pleasant environment to work in.

Becoming truly Agile

I left a large company environment because I wanted to have a more immediate an impact on the quality of home and workspace building locally. 

I set up my own consultancy in order to be truly agile, to balance work and home life more effectively, and to work with a more diverse group of people, through connecting with other SMEs and community groups.

I am an active member of my Transition Town volunteer group (I carry out thermal imaging surveys locally among other community activities) and a STEM ambassador. I’ve volunteered for the Prince’s Trust and local Real Junk Food Project.

The Positive+ Collective

We’re excited to present The Positive+ Collective – a collaboration between changebuilding, humblebee and Perpendicular Architecture.

The Positive Collective adopts regenerative design solutions in response to the increasingly urgent issue of climate change, biodiversity loss and the social challenges we face.

Our mission does not look to minimise our impact but to maximise our positive contribution, to benefit society and the environment.