Helios House Zero Carbon Office
new build office generating more energy than it consumes
Workspace
Zero-Carbon
Sustainability
An understated building that generates more energy than it consumes, Helios House is the head office for renewable technologies company Solarsense, who are based in Backell, North Somerset. They approached the Practice to design their new-build office with the aim to become a regional centre of excellence for clean energy.
Inline with this, the building had to be an inspiring work environment as well as a showcase for the latest renewable energy technologies, and a demonstration centre for members of the public, businesses, architects and consultants. There was also the need for the building to accommodate the various seminars, workshops and open days held throughout the year.
The rural location influences the form of the building, which is derived from that of a country barn, providing a simple, flexible, rectangular form constructed with timber frame and clad in both treated and blackened European Redwood. The main feature of the building is the large south facing roof, orientated to maximise the potential for solar energy generation. The solar installation is an extensive array of fully integrated photovoltaic panels, with solar pv roof lights that cast dappled shade down onto the feature staircase beneath.
Further systems and zero carbon approaches include smart energy controls, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MHVR), airtightness and insulation to Passivhaus levels, triple glazed windows and doors, LED lighting, ground source heat pump and ev charging points.
Our projects include the design of buildings for community groups and charities, affordable eco housing and hostels, low energy offices and commercial refurbishments.
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