Hackford Retrofit
A sensitive ecological retrofit of a characterful, mid-century Victorian Home.
Sustainable Retrofit Vision
Built in the mid-19th century, Hackford Retrofit reflects traditional Victorian construction: solid brick walls, timber floors and roofs, single-glazed sash windows, and multiple coal fireplaces. Designed long before insulation or energy efficiency were considered, the house relies on fabric that performs poorly by modern standards. While services have evolved, from coal to gas and electricity, the building envelope remains largely uninsulated, resulting in high energy demand (estimated at ~30,000 kWh per year).
An Eco-Centred Transition
Today’s energy shift from gas to electricity presents an opportunity to significantly reduce carbon emissions. However, real impact requires more than switching tariffs. Meaningful carbon reduction depends on lowering overall energy use and increasing on-site renewable generation, such as photovoltaic panels.
Heating accounts for approximately two-thirds of household energy consumption. Our strategy prioritises reducing this demand through a comprehensive thermal retrofit.
Thermal Retrofit Strategy
By upgrading the building envelope - improving insulation, eliminating cold bridges, and reducing air leakage - we can reduce space heating demand by at least two-thirds, potentially up to 80–85%. These measures also enhance summer comfort and acoustic performance.
High-performance glazing: Replace single glazing with triple-glazed units that retain a traditional appearance at the front and adopt a contemporary character at the rear. Well-oriented glazing can contribute passive solar gain.
Party wall optimisation: Close the existing 10cm gap at the rear boundary to improve thermal performance and reduce heat loss.
Roof and wall upgrades: Introduce high levels of insulation and ventilation strategies to minimise heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.
Designing for a Changing Climate
Victorian solid brick homes are increasingly vulnerable to summer overheating. Our design integrates:
External shading to south-facing glazing
Enhanced roof ventilation and radiant barriers
Light-coloured roof finishes
Insulated wall construction
Passive stack ventilation to promote secure night-time cooling
This retrofit reimagines a historic home for a low-carbon future, retaining its character while transforming its environmental performance.
