A Passivhaus-designed extension to an Edinburgh school has been officially recognised as a ‘first of its kind’ in the city, receiving recognition for its use of energy-efficient design and materials, including cross-laminated timber (CLT).
The extension to Sciennes Primary, located in the Marchmont area of the capital, has officially achieved Passivhaus certification from the Passivhaus Institute, following quality checks of the £3.2 million two-storey extension to the B-listed building.
The project has also been honoured with three industry awards, receiving the ‘Large Scale Project award’ from the Edinburgh Architect’s Association, ‘Innovation in Delivering a Sustainable Learning Space’ award at the Learning Places Scotland Awards, and the Glasgow Institute of Architects award for Education.
The City of Edinburgh Council sought to replace the outdated temporary classrooms at the school with ‘state-of-the-art’ facilities to accommodate future pupil enrolment. The new pavilion, designed by Holmes Miller in collaboration with Sussed Sustainability, houses four new classroom spaces.
The structural solution was delivered by Will Rudd in collaboration with contractor Maxi Construction.
Adhering to Passivhaus standards, the extension was the first in Scotland to be constructed from CLT.
Work started in June 2022 and was completed by August 2023. Since then, the project team has been working with the Institute and certifiers to quality check the completed building, culminating in it being officially certified earlier this month.
Carolyn Anstruther, depute headteacher at Sciennes Primary, said, “We are thrilled to see that our new Passivhaus extension is officially certified and recognised with these prestigious awards. The new extension, currently housing our primary one pupils, enhances our play-based approach to learning in these warm, comfortable and airy classrooms which allow easy access to the outdoor spaces. This ultra-modern building blends in beautifully with our original Victorian building, creating an environment that supports our commitment to sustainability and environmental friendliness.”
Shirley Evatt, senior associate at Will Rudd, added, “This wasn’t an easy project and we faced some challenges, particularly with the school’s location and proximity to surrounding buildings. However, through open and honest dialogue and a real collaborative approach we have achieved this historic milestone.”
Clara Garriga, project director at Holmes Miller, stated, “Sciennes Primary is a testament to what can be achieved through open-minded collaboration and a passion for good architecture with people at its heart. Combining sustainable design with an understanding of the needs of young learners, we worked closely with our partners to push the boundaries and deliver a unique learning facility where pupils can thrive.”
Matt Bridgestock, director at Sussed Sustainability, commented, “Passivhaus certification for Sciennes Primary School highlights the rigorous construction quality and collaboration behind the project. This achievement ensures a healthy, comfortable, and inspiring learning environment for children while setting a new standard for energy-efficient schools. It proves that Scotland’s construction industry can deliver radically better buildings with the right approach.”
The wider team also included Doig & Smith (project management/QS and principal designer); The Blackwood Partnership/the council’s in-house M&E engineers; and Constructional Timber Manufacturers Ltd (CLT designer and specialist sub-contractor).
