Sarah Turvill Multifaith Centre at University of Exeter

We further extended our track-record for building property to the Passivhaus standard by constructing University of Exeter's new Sarah Turvill Multifaith Centre at the Streatham Campus.

The dedicated Multifaith Centre replaces existing Muslim prayer rooms and multifaith spaces in the Old Library with a new space for quiet reflection and multi-faith activities, which promote respect, community and inclusion.

The Sarah Turvill Multifaith Centre is a space for quiet reflection, multifaith activities and events, as well as providing a 50 person Muslim prayer space, and a dedicated home for our Multifaith Chaplains who serve the whole University community.

It is named in honour of alumna of the University and former Chair of the University’s Council, Sarah Turvill.

Focus on sustainability

Sustainability and reducing carbon emissions have been fundamental to the design and the construction of the building, which aims to achieve Passivhaus certification for its energy efficiency, carbon reduction and air quality. The building is constructed from energy efficient porotherm blocks, and includes air source heat pumps and solar panels on the roof.

Our work to achieve Passivhaus Classic Certification included rigorous low-energy design standards, significantly improving building comfort, air quality and energy use, with greater carbon reduction.

One way was through using low carbon porotherm clay blocks, which are made from 30% recycled materials and have an expected lifespan of 150 years; even after which the blocks can be recycled. It also incorporated high levels of insulation including triple glazed windows to drive high air tightness performance. It also benefits from air source heat pumps and PV solar panels on the roof.

Success factors for our team

• Early Planning: The project benefited greatly from early involvement of the Passivhaus coordinator and a specialist architect.
• Detailed Record Keeping: Meticulous documentation of all materials and construction processes was essential for Passivhaus certification.
• Strong Customer Collaboration: The frequent communication and close relationship with the university helped to anticipate and resolve issues.

Key learning

• Design is Critical: Design and detailing are paramount for Passivhaus projects.
• Focus on Detailing: Pay close attention to the details, especially those related to airtightness and thermal performance. These are critical for Passivhaus certification.
• Early Passivhaus Certifier Review: It's crucial to have the Passivhaus certifier review all MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) system selections before the supply chain begins purchasing equipment. Changes later can be costly and time-consuming.
• Focus on Airtightness: Achieving the necessary air tightness levels requires meticulous attention to detail and continuous monitoring throughout construction, especially with internal plaster lines.
• Early Supply Chain Involvement: Involving the supply chain early to ensure all materials and systems meet Passivhaus standards.
• Importance of Record Keeping: Meticulous record keeping is essential on all materials and construction details to achieve Passivhaus certification.
• Proactive Learning: Be prepared to work with new materials and techniques. Invest in training and site visits to ensure the team is comfortable with the specific requirements of the project.

Rob Woolcock, Director at Willmott Dixon in Exeter:

"Having worked with the University of Exeter on a number of projects, this new and inclusive centre supports the University’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, culture and heritage of its students and the wider community. It also aligns with our strategy to push the boundaries of sustainable design construction and operation of building.”

Passivhaus track record

Willmott Dixon is a founder member of the UK’s Passivhaus Trust, an independent, non-profit organisation that provides leadership for the adoption of the Passivhaus standard and methodology in the UK.

We are also behind a series of Passivhaus projects, from the largest non-domestic project, the centre for Medicine at the University of Leicester, to the largest secondary school, the Harris Academy in Sutton. More recently we delivered a Passivhaus trial in Caerphilly involving 18 new homes and eight further homes for Be First in Barking.