Our Approach to Sustainability
Climate Emergency
Nicoll Russell Studios’ in-house “Green Group” reviews and disseminates emerging research, current best practice and industry-wide developments such as the Royal Institute of British Architects “2030 Climate Challenge” initiative.
We have developed our own “ NRS Green Checklist” protocol which aligns with RIBA workstages and is managed and monitored through a project’s development. Low-energy buildings are more often efficient, cheaper to run, and- if passive environmental design strategies are maximised- simpler to maintain.
Minimising future operational energy use and embodied carbon during construction both require specific consideration. Committing time and resource at the outset of a project to sustainable design ultimately reduces whole life operating costs in buildings, and offers real long term value to owners and operators.
We have in-house Certified Passive House Designer and BREEAM Associate expertise, which, along with energy modelling software, allows projects to define, develop and deliver upon sustainability goals throughout the design and construction process.
Nicoll Russell Studios designed the HQ for Hillcrest Housing Association as an exemplar of low carbon, low energy design. It is rated “BREEAM Excellent”, and on completion won the SDA Sustainable Building of the Year Award.
“NRS as a practice have a deservedly high reputation for their design quality which was already well known to Hillcrest. Our experience in working with them on our new HQ has also increased our regard of the practice in two other areas; their skill and attentiveness in interpreting and delivering the client’s wishes; and their commitment and ability to realise the client’s vision for the building to be an exemplar for sustainability. In meeting our aspirations NRS have again shown that they have the skills, knowledge and experience to create and deliver a quality product, focussed on the needs of the client and delivered with professionalism and enthusiasm”.
Project Manager, Hillcrest
Our Commitment
As a practice we seek to embed sustainability in every project we undertake, optimising sustainable design principles within broader client aspirations and budget. We have always sought to create robust, flexible and adaptable buildings and spaces that last the test of time and minimise unnecessary waste.
Many of our projects have involved the creative re-use and retrofit of existing buildings, one of the most significant ways in which we can reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.
Our own studio is based in a retrofitted light industrial unit in the heart of the walk-able community of Broughty Ferry. We have gradually upgraded the property using recycled furniture and re-purposed materials- including wall and roof insulation reclaimed from a demolition site.
The studio is 5 minutes walk from an East Coast Mainline train station, and public transport is encouraged for visiting our projects across the country. The majority of our staff live within 5 miles of the studio, with car journeys minimised and active travel encouraged.
Active Travel and Healthy Lifestyles
Our studio has Cycle-Friendly Employer status from Cycling Scotland, and have invested in workplace facilities to encourage a cycling commute.
One of our Associates is a key member of a local running club and is an Active Travel advocate on projects within the office. She has led our own staff exercise group initiative that encourages running, cycling, walking, football, yoga, hillwalking, and other activities to be supported and logged as part of a “nudge” policy promoting active and healthy lifestyles. Her efforts were recognised with a “100 Women in Cycling” Award presented at the Houses of Parliament.
In addition, one of our Directors, is a qualified Mountain Biking coach, regularly volunteering to teach children and young adults, and has led NRS training sessions as part of that Healthy Lifestyle advocacy.
Photography : Andrew Lee, The Courier, NRS