ARCO₂ are passionate about designing and building eco-friendly, future-proofed properties that lead by example.

Sustainable architecture is healthy, energy efficient, eco-concious building design. 

Having specialised in sustainable architecture and low-energy buildings since 2003, ARCO₂ have a core business philosophy of protecting the environment whilst creating the finest Architecture in Cornwall and the south west.

Experience In Sustainability

ARCO₂ create designs on-site, in person and take time to understand the nature of a project.

With over 550 established solutions in our architecture portfolio, our planning applications have a high success rate.

We have built strong relationships within the Planning and Building Regulations departments and have our own dedicated planning liaison officer.

An eco friendly journey

Our architecture practice takes pride in seeing projects through from start to completion, ensuring that the design, vision and quality are maintained throughout the process.

For consistency and a comprehensive, sustainable experience, ARCO₂ work alongside our in-house construction team ADD Sustainable Construction in our bespoke award-winning office.

The benefits of this close partnership include sharing resources and seeing familiar faces throughout your project. By taking care of everything, we can take the stress out of the project to ensure your journey with us is enjoyable.

WHAT IS PASSIVE HOUSE DESIGN?

Passive House is the fastest-growing energy performance standard in the world. Originating in Germany, its primary aim is to reduce energy and improve comfort through intelligent design. The five Passive House principles are:

  • Thermal bridge-free design
  • Superior windows
  • Ventilation with heat recovery
  • Quality insulation
  • Airtight construction

Passive Houses require minimal heating; often only a few radiators or heated towel rails are all that is required. For a building to be considered a Passive House, it must meet the following criteria:

PASSIVE HOUSE CRITERIA

  1. The Space Heating Energy Demand is not to exceed 15 kWh per square meter of net living space (treated floor area) per year which relates to 10 W per square meter during peak demand.
  2. The Renewable Primary Energy Demand, the total energy used for all domestic applications (heating, hot water and domestic electricity), must not exceed 60 kWh per square meter of treated floor area per year for Passive House Classic.
  3. In terms of Airtightness, a maximum of 0.6 air changes per hour at 50 pascals pressure should be measurable using an on-site pressure test (in both pressurised and non-pressurised states).
  4. Thermal Comfort must be met for all living areas during winter as well as in summer, with not more than 10% of the hours in a given year over 25°C.