As the architectural landscape evolves, so do the regulations that govern the way we design and build homes.
Early next year, the Future Homes Standard (FHS) will come into effect, bringing with it a transformative approach to residential construction in the UK.
This is part of the broader Future Homes and Buildings Standards for 2023, which aim to conserve energy, ensure lower energy bills, and transition to a net-zero approach for both residential and non-domestic structures.
MP Architects are prepared for these changes and we’re working with our Senior Chartered Architect and Sustainability Specialist Dandi Passerini so that we can lead the way in creating greener and energy-efficient homes that exceed the new standards.
The Future Homes Standard represents a significant shift in building regulations aimed at drastically reducing carbon emissions from new homes in the UK.
Set to come into effect in 2025, this standard is a cornerstone of the UK government’s strategy to meet its ambitious climate change targets and curb greenhouse gas emissions. Under the Future Homes Standard, new homes will be required to incorporate low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, and adhere to stringent energy efficiency criteria.
This forward-thinking approach ensures that future homes are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective for homeowners, paving the way for a sustainable living environment.
The Future Homes Standard aims to ensure that all new homes are built with significantly reduced carbon emissions, ultimately achieving zero carbon emissions. By 2025, homes constructed under this standard will be expected to produce 75-80% less carbon dioxide than those built under current regulations. Key elements include:
While full compliance will be mandatory in early 2025, the time to learn and prepare is now.
The Future Homes Standard is an integral part of the UK’s building regulations, designed to elevate the energy efficiency and sustainability of new homes. This standard will be implemented through updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which focuses on the conservation of fuel and power.
A key component of this initiative is the Home Energy Model, a new calculation methodology that will assess the energy efficiency of new homes.
By incorporating these changes, the Future Homes Standard aims to create a robust framework that supports the construction of energy-efficient, low-carbon homes, aligning with the broader goals of the UK’s green building agenda.
We believe that sustainable design is not just a regulatory requirement but a responsibility. Our approach to architecture has always prioritised innovation and environmental best practices so the FHS aligns seamlessly with our own vision for the future.
We are adapting our designs to meet these exciting new challenges and the standards set for future buildings:
Wherever possible, we integrate heat pump systems, specifically air source heat pumps, into our new home designs.
These systems offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating methods, reducing both carbon emissions and energy bills for homeowners.
Solar panels are becoming a standard feature in our own business office and our projects, capturing renewable energy to power homes and buildings efficiently. This not only contributes to the sustainability of the building but also reduces dependence on external energy sources.
Additionally, solar panels play a crucial role in reducing energy demand by lowering the overall energy consumption of buildings, which aligns with regulatory standards aimed at achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The rise of electric vehicles has created a demand for accessible charging solutions. We proactively include EV charging points in our plans, ensuring that our homes are future-proofed for a greener mode of transport.
Our architectural approach goes beyond technology. From the orientation of the home to the materials used, every detail is considered to maximise energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact.
The Future Homes Standard offers a multitude of benefits for homeowners, the environment, and the construction industry. One of the most significant advantages is the reduction in carbon emissions, which will help the UK meet its climate change targets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Homeowners will also benefit from lower energy bills, as the standard mandates the use of low-carbon heating systems and high energy efficiency standards.
Additionally, the improved energy efficiency of new homes will lead to reduced energy consumption and lower demand on the electricity grid. The standard also promotes the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing the sustainability of future homes.
To ensure compliance with the Future Homes Standard, new homes will undergo rigorous testing and commissioning processes. These procedures include air tightness testing and thermal imaging to verify that the home is well-insulated and free from draughts.
Additionally, the installation of low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, will be carefully commissioned to ensure they operate efficiently and effectively. These measures are crucial in guaranteeing that new homes meet the required energy efficiency standards, ultimately contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions generated by residential buildings.
By adhering to these stringent testing and commissioning protocols, the Future Homes Standard ensures that new homes are built to the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency.
We see the Future Homes Standard as an opportunity to innovate and inspire. As we approach its implementation, we will ensure that our team of specialists is committed to working closely with you to ensure their homes are designed for decades to come.
The UK Green Building Council (GBC) has critiqued the Future Homes Standard, arguing that the proposed measures are insufficient for achieving true net-zero emissions. The GBC emphasises the need for more stringent standards, particularly in relation to embodied carbon and the overall sustainability of new housing developments. They call for more rigorous measures to ensure that new homes contribute effectively to better building performance and a sustainable future.
The transition to a low-carbon future is a shared journey, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of this change. If you’re planning a new build or renovation project, now is the time to embrace these forward-thinking practices. Let us help you create a beautiful, functional, and sustainable home.
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