ARCO2 Award Winning Architects in Cornwall
We talk to Ian Armstrong from award winning ARCO2, award winning architects in Cornwall, about the practice’s recent receipt of the top accolade in the Carbon Reduction Impact class at the CABE Built Environment Awards for their recent new-build Turnstones.
How did it feel to compete against larger firms and come out on top with Turnstones?
When we saw the shortlist, we honestly didn’t think we stood a chance. Competing against one of the most respected engineering firms globally, a significant project for Hong Kong University, and a leading company in recycled construction materials felt like a true David and Goliath moment for us – a small sustainable architecture and construction company from Cornwall. Winning was an incredible validation of our vision and dedication.
Can you tell us more about the vision behind Turnstones and how ARCO2 approached sustainability and carbon reduction in the project?
At ARCO2, sustainability is at the core of all our designs and Turnstones was no exception. We carefully considered construction methods suited to the harsh coastal environment, balancing those with carbon impact. Every aspect of the project was designed for minimal environmental impact, from the careful demolition of the existing building to the meticulous selection of materials and fittings. ADD Sustainable Construction’s commitment to re-use, recycling, and data tracking was essential throughout this process.
The property exceeded Passivhaus u-values, which is a significant achievement. Could you share some key innovations or design decisions that helped you achieve this?
We embraced a fabric-first approach, prioritising super insulation, exceptional air tightness, and high-quality windows within our budget. Our innovative design featured a super-wide cavity construction filled with 300mm insulation and used basalt wall ties to minimise thermal bridging, pushing the boundaries of energy efficiency.
What do you believe makes Turnstones stand out compared to other sustainable projects in the industry?
Turnstones is visually striking, making a bold statement about its sustainability. Our rigorous carbon calculations and thorough consideration of carbon impact throughout the project set us apart, especially in comparison to world-leading firms. This achievement reflects how far our company has come in 21 years of commitment to sustainability.
As a relatively smaller firm, what challenges did ARCO2 face in executing such an ambitious project, and how did your team overcome them?
Innovation is at the heart of our architecture, and every project comes with its own unique challenges. Sometimes, we underestimate the immense talent and creativity we have in Cornwall. Our region has a rich history of ingenuity, and we take pride in contributing to that legacy, collaborating closely to overcome hurdles and push boundaries.
How does winning this award for Carbon Reduction Impact reflect ARCO2’s overall mission and philosophy towards sustainability in architecture?
Winning this award is a powerful testament to our journey and demonstrates what a small firm can achieve on national and international stages. While we’ve earned several accolades over the years, triumphing against such notable competitors humbles us and reinforces our commitment to sustainability. Our mission has always been to pursue and uphold sustainable practices while continuously seeking improvement.
What does this recognition from CABE mean for the future of ARCO2? Are there any upcoming projects where you plan to push the boundaries of sustainability even further?
This recognition inspires us to continue pushing the envelope in our current and future projects. We take great pride in knowing that few firms in the country can match our achievements in sustainability. As our knowledge and skills evolve, we remain committed to raising the bar.
How important is collaboration in projects like Turnstones, both within your team and with clients? How did that influence the success of the project?
We firmly believe that the best projects arise from strong collaborations; the best projects have the best clients! Our clients played a crucial role, granting us complete design freedom and trusting us to create a beautiful, sustainable design that met the highest environmental standards. This partnership was instrumental to our success.
In your opinion, what role do smaller, more agile firms like ARCO2 play in shaping the future of sustainable architecture, particularly about larger competitors?
Smaller firms are often the innovators because we have to be. To stand out and compete, we must offer something exceptional. However, this innovation is challenging due to limited financial resources. Thus, sustainability must be embedded in the core of our operations, not treated as an isolated initiative.
Lastly, what would your advice be to other architects or firms aiming to prioritise sustainability and achieve the kind of success ARCO2 has with Turnstones?
Sustainability is everything – without it, we have nothing. Embrace it fully, integrate it into your core values, and let it guide every decision you make.
