Real-world analysis of domestic heat pump installations has identified underlying reasons for system underperformance. Alex Smith looks at the study paper’s recommendations, which the authors say could reduce annual energy costs by 26%
Author: mollytooherrudd
Inspired by nature: the influence of biophilic design
A paper measuring the psychological impacts of biophilic design says that nature has the potential to inspire creativity and motivation in building environments. Tim Dwyer looks at the evidence from Nottingham Trent University research
Pilot feedback readies UK NZCBS for lift-off
In the build-up to the launch of Version 1 of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard, Molly Tooher-Rudd talks to its CEO, Katie Clemence-Jackson, to see how feedback from pilot projects is influencing the standard’s carbon and energy limits
Targeted protection: smoke control survey
The rules around fire protection for fire and smoke dampers need to be interpreted accurately to ensure appropriate measures are taken. A survey by Advanced Air and CIBSE Journal reveals engineers’ real-life specifications. David Blackman reports
Circle of light: 3D printed luminaires
Lighting giant Signify is using 3D printing to enable a more circular approach to manufacturing. Molly Tooher-Rudd looks at how the technology could offer customised light fittings with a minimal carbon footprint
Cooling the curve: the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab hotel
The smooth, continuous curves of the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab luxury hotel offer an elegant contrast to Dubai’s cluster of imposing towers. Andy Pearson looks at the sophisticated engineering behind the façade
Avoiding the trap: embodied carbon and low-GWP heat pumps
Research by Max Fordham shows that air source heat pumps with low global warming potential refrigerant risk being penalised under current calculation methods for embodied carbon. The firm’s Lia Minty discusses how upfront carbon differs according to refrigerant type and proposes a fairer methodology
Piloting the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard
The highly anticipated UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard is set to launch in early 2026, after a year of feedback from more than 200 pilot projects. At a recent CIBSE conference, engineers shared the lessons that have been instrumental to defining the Standard’s final version. Molly Tooher-Rudd reports
Intelligence gathering: data centres and neurodiversity at Build2Perform
The CIBSE Build2Perform theatres at elementalLONDON tackled key issues affecting building services, including the challenge of optimising data-centre efficiency in the face of AI’s voracious energy and water demands
Member support: the CIBSE Benevolent fund
Chair of the CIBSE Benevolent Fund committee Kevin Kelly FCIBSE highlights the essential role of the fund, and how you can do your bit to support fellow members