The Burnbrae Road development consists of 16 flats, 4 houses, and a retail unit on the ground floor. This project marks a significant achievement as one of the largest certified Passivhaus projects in Scotland and the first for Midlothian Council.
The project ensures the highest standard of thermal comfort and minimal in-use carbon emissions. The certification process involved a rigorous, systematic approach with clear, measured targets developed throughout both the design stage and through project delivery.
Our early involvement in the project allowed significant input into the decision-making process, ensuring that planned designs were practical and deliverable on-site. Working closely with the design team and Passivhaus Designer, all design decisions were assessed using the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP), a key design tool which makes use of numerous tested and approved calculations to yield a building’s heating, cooling and primary energy demand.
Our sister division, Fleming Timber Structures played a crucial role in the design, manufacture and erection of the structural solution for walls and roof, optimising the timber frame, largely based on I joist/stud to provide a thermal bridge free envelope while reducing the embodied carbon of other construction types. Other areas to address embodied carbon included the use of natural insulation over oil based variants.
Neil N. Davidson, Special Projects Co-ordinator – Place, Midlothian Council said: “Fleming worked pragmatically from design through completion. The council is delighted with the end product, which aligns with our policy to provide high-performance homes. This project contributes to our commitment to being carbon neutral by 2030.”
Claire Cockburn, Senior Architect & Passivhaus Designer, Smith Scott Mullan Associates said: “Fleming were enthusiastic about tackling the challenges of this Passivhaus project, collaborating closely to meet quality demands. The finished project looks great, and we hope residents enjoy their new low-energy homes.”
The Burnbrae Road development highlights our dedication to sustainable construction and innovation. Our proactive approach and commitment to continuous learning ensures our clients of positive outcomes in the delivery of high-value, high-performance projects. This project not only meets current standards but also contributes significantly to a sustainable future, supporting Midlothian Council’s climate strategy and goals.
