Sustainable office development engineered for low-energy performance and long-term efficiency
A modern workplace scheme combining passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, and efficient systems to reduce carbon impact and enhance day-to-day usability.
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Passive solar design
Rainwater harvesting
Energy-efficient systems
This project was a chance to apply sustainable thinking across the board — from structural orientation to drainage and energy systems. Every element, from the rainwater harvesting to the passive solar strategy, was considered not just for performance today, but for how the site would function long-term. It’s a great example of sustainability shaping the entire design process, not just the headline features.
Tom Morris
Structural Engineer
Sustainable office development engineered for low-energy performance and long-term efficiency
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Passive solar design
Rainwater harvesting
Energy-efficient systems
Engineer:
Brightwell Barns is a commercial office development designed with sustainability at its core. JMS Engineers provided full structural and civil engineering services for the site, which delivers 30 barn-style offices across four buildings - all shaped by energy-conscious design principles.
The structural design supported passive solar heating, with careful orientation and brise soleil shading to reduce overheating. Double glazing and high-performance insulation delivered excellent thermal performance, while air source heat pumps and reverse cycle air conditioning provided year-round energy-efficient comfort.
On the civil side, the site integrates rainwater harvesting systems for grey water use, along with natural drainage solutions that work with the landscaped surroundings. External levels were sensitively designed to support accessibility and maintain balance between form and function.
This project reflects REFEA’s commitment to practical sustainability - combining passive principles, efficient infrastructure, and long-term resilience in commercial development.
Focus Areas
REFEA’s work is guided by six core principles that drive sustainable structural and civil engineering - turning practical design decisions into low-carbon outcomes across East Anglia.
Reuse First
Prioritising existing structures and materials to reduce waste and embodied carbon.
Early Design Collaboration
Involving engineers early to embed sustainability from concept to construction.
Low-Carbon Materials
Specifying materials with lower embodied carbon and designing for material efficiency.
Circular Design Thinking
Designing for adaptability, longevity, and future reuse from the outset.
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Integrated Drainage Solutions
Embedding SuDS into civil engineering for sustainable, climate-resilient developments.
Practical Sustainability
Delivering buildable, cost-conscious solutions that meet real environmental targets.
Sustainable
structures
east anglia
As structural engineers, we have a unique opportunity to influence how the built environment responds to the climate crisis. Reuse isn't just about saving materials - it's about rethinking value, preserving what works, and designing with long-term resilience in mind. Through REFEA, we hope to make reuse a more practical and achievable option on projects across East Anglia by sharing knowledge, highlighting viable approaches, and supporting early-stage design decisions.
Mark Weston
Structural Engineer, JMS Engineers
Knowledge is key to sustainable change. Explore our latest insights and technical resources:
Path to a Low-Carbon Built Environment
The built environment contributes nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, much of it through construction and materials. In East Anglia, reducing embodied carbon is critical to meeting sustainability goals. By reusing structures, designing efficiently, and integrating low-impact civil solutions, we can reshape how the region builds - and lead the way towards a net zero future.