Business Details
19 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Passivhaus Design London
We are a RIBA Chartered Practice dedicated to creating architecture that balances responsiveness to context with environmental responsibility. Our work spans residential, commercial, and cultural projects, specialising in new builds, adaptive reuse, and retrofitting existing structures. Founded by professionals with postgraduate expertise in sustainable design from institutions like the Architectural Association, we integrate passive design principles and low-carbon materials across all project stages. Our team holds certifications including Passivhaus Designer and participates in industry initiatives like the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge.We combine technical rigour with creative spatial solutions, prioritising natural light, thermal comfort, and lifecycle material performance. Our approach embeds environmental considerations from feasibility studies through to construction administration, supported by analytical tools for energy and carbon measurement. Recognised through awards and international collaborations, we maintain academic ties through teaching roles at institutions like the Architectural Association.
Services
Passivhaus Design
Sustainable Architecture
Building Retrofit
Net-Zero Homes
Commercial Architecture
Residential Extensions
Urban Planning
Material Analysis
Energy Modelling
Adaptive Reuse
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA Chartered Architects with Passivhaus certification expertise
- Our team includes Certified Passivhaus Designers and former Stirling Prize collaborators
- We employ lifecycle carbon analysis and thermal performance measurement tools
- We hold academic teaching positions in sustainable design at the Architectural Association
- Our work has won Schco Excellence Awards and Dezeen Awards
Associations and certifications
- RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects)
- Passivhaus Trust UK
What people say
Captured all ideas well
Design suited needs perfectly
Professional and approachable team
Added clever interconnected spaces
Fundamental to project success
Services
Passivhaus Design
We specialise in certified Passivhaus projects that achieve ultra-low energy consumption through thermal insulation, airtight construction, and heat recovery systems. Our approach combines rigorous PHPP modelling with creative spatial design to meet strict performance standards while maintaining architectural quality. Recent projects include new-build homes and commercial buildings that reduce heating demand by over 90% compared to conventional construction.
Building Retrofit
Our retrofit expertise transforms existing structures through deep energy upgrades and adaptive reuse strategies. We implement solutions like external wall insulation, triple-glazed windows, and mechanical ventilation systems while preserving architectural character. Current projects include converting 1980s housing stock into net-zero homes and upgrading historic buildings with modern thermal performance standards.
Net-Zero Homes
We design residential projects that achieve net-zero operational carbon through passive solar design, renewable energy integration, and embodied carbon reduction. Our approach includes solar panel integration, air-source heat pumps, and sustainable material selection. Recent completed projects demonstrate how these principles apply to both new builds and retrofitted properties across London's urban context.
Commercial Architecture
We create commercial spaces that prioritise natural daylight, ventilation, and biophilic design principles. Our projects integrate passive cooling strategies and low-carbon materials while addressing functional requirements for modern workplaces. Current work includes a conference and retreat centre in Sussex that combines traditional construction methods with advanced thermal performance standards.
Energy Modelling
We use analytical tools to optimise building performance through energy balance calculations and carbon footprint assessments. Our services include thermal bridging analysis, daylight simulation, and lifecycle material evaluation. This technical expertise ensures compliance with standards like BREEAM and supports our commitment to evidence-based design decisions.
People
Giles Bruce
Director
Giles holds a Distinction in Sustainable Environmental Design from the Architectural Association and is a Certified Passivhaus Designer. He previously worked on the Stirling Prize-shortlisted LSE Saw Swee Hock Student Centre and lectures internationally on sustainable design. He directs A-Zero's technical strategy and design approach.
Ingrid Hu
Director
Ingrid trained in Canada and the UK, bringing expertise in contextual research and spatial experience from her time at Heatherwick Studio. She oversees interiors and competitions at A-Zero while maintaining her role as associate lecturer at Central St Martins. Her work focuses on material narratives and interdisciplinary design strategies.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, Passivhaus design, building retrofit, net-zero homes, and commercial architecture across London and the UK.
Are you certified for Passivhaus projects?
Yes, our team includes Certified Passivhaus Designers and we've completed multiple certified Passivhaus projects across residential and commercial sectors.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We prioritise passive design strategies, lifecycle material analysis, and carbon footprint reduction while integrating renewable technologies where appropriate.
What areas do you work in?
We operate across London and the South East, with completed projects in Oxfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, and Buckinghamshire.
Can you handle listed building renovations?
Yes, we have experience in retrofitting historic buildings while maintaining their character and meeting modern performance standards.
Do you offer international services?
While our focus is the UK, we've worked on international projects in Budapest and Sweden through collaborative design competitions.
