Whitecode Consulting devised a comprehensive Passivhaus low-carbon heating and mechanical services strategy to help a major Ealing regeneration project deliver Passivhaus certification whilst maintaining occupant comfort, energy efficiency and long-term operational performance.
The Golf Links Phase 3 development project saw the deconstruction of the existing building and construction of three residential blocks ranging between six and eight storeys. The three buildings contained 143 affordable residential units – a mix of social rent, London Affordable Rent, Shared Ownership and Shared Equity properties – along with mixed-use space at ground floor level.
Whitecode was appointed to undertake the Stage 4 MEP design on behalf of the main contractor before being novated to the mechanical subcontractor to deliver the Stage 5 technical design. Whitecode was also responsible for the Sustainability design package.
Following Whitecode's appointment, Passivhaus requirements were introduced to a design that had originally been developed using conventional residential design assumptions. This fundamentally changed the detailed MEP coordination, influencing heating loads, ventilation design, acoustic performance, airtightness detailing, service penetrations, drainage design, commissioning strategy and maintenance access.
With the project targeting Passivhaus certification, there was a strong focus on passive design from the outset. However, this presented significant challenges, including reduced space heating loads, stringent airtightness requirements, revised ventilation methodologies and detailed coordination of all services passing through the thermal envelope. Early assessments had revealed some units were at risk of overheating, which meant a number of reports had to be updated and re-run as the design developed.
As a result, Whitecode Consulting worked closely with architects ECE Architecture and main contractor Hill Group – along with the Passivhaus certifier – to refine elements such as the façade, shading and glazing. For instance, recessed balconies were implemented and an angled building façade was introduced to help reduce solar gain and limit the risk of overheating.
Additionally, cooling modules were added to the ventilation systems to ensure the units would remain healthy and comfortable for occupants.
The original MVHR strategy was completely redesigned to satisfy both Approved Document F and Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) methodology. Conventional branch ductwork was replaced with a radial (manifold) distribution system, MVHR units were relocated onto external walls to minimise duct lengths, duct velocities were reduced, ductwork insulation was enhanced, and systems were designed to achieve lower internal noise levels.
Additional coordination was required to ensure every service penetrating the thermal envelope could be both fire-stopped and airtight sealed. Installation tolerances were increased around pipework and cabling to accommodate proprietary airtight sealing systems, whilst energy-retaining valves were introduced to drainage pipework terminating through the roof to minimise heat loss.
Whitecode developed a central propane Air Source Heat Pump strategy that was optimised following revised heat loss calculations, reducing the original number of units and improving efficiency. The domestic water strategy was also redesigned to incorporate a combined potable water and sprinkler storage solution, reducing storage volumes whilst satisfying all regulations and water hygiene guidance.
Working to RIBA Stage 4 MEPH and Sustainability, Whitecode incorporated all MEP disciplines to ensure there were no clashes with architectural or structural elements, finalised heating and cooling loads and electrical distribution calculations, and provided all necessary switchboards and other vital plant. All underground site-wide services were coordinated, ensuring incoming utilities, drainage and buried MEP services were fully coordinated before construction commenced, reducing installation clashes and programme risk.
They also made sure all designs aligned with health and safety standards and building regulations. Throughout the project, Whitecode maintained the MEP CDM design risk register, identifying significant residual design risks and coordinating mitigation measures with the wider design team as the design evolved. The team also developed a comprehensive Plant Replacement Strategy to ensure all rooftop plant could be safely maintained and replaced throughout the building lifecycle.
With the three residential buildings all requiring lift access, full vertical transport analysis was undertaken. The building’s transport needs were assessed, along with handling capacity, average required journey times, and average occupation demands, to provide the client with the data needed to determine viable lift options.
Weekly multidisciplinary coordination meetings were undertaken with the architect, Passivhaus certifier, structural engineer and specialist manufacturers to resolve design issues whilst maintaining programme and certification requirements.
Alexandra Davis, Mechanical Associate at Whitecode Consulting revealed the significant advantages of close collaboration on such a complex project. They said: “It was quite an iterative process, but through ongoing coordination and adjustments, we were able to improve the design and bring it in line with the required comfort standards.
“Overall, the project involved a mix of passive design and some targeted active solutions to achieve a practical and compliant outcome.”
Jonathan Grant from The Hill Group thanked the wider project team, including Whitecode, for a successful project: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for your hard work, commitment and dedication. This project has been a resounding success. Every obstacle was overcome through your professionalism, teamwork and determination.”
The project was successfully handed over to Ealing Council three months ahead of programme and within budget. It has since received the Construction Excellence Award for Sustainability 2026, NHBC Pride in the Job 2026, two consecutive Considerate Constructors Scheme Bronze Awards and has been featured in the Architects' Journal.
