UK’s first biophilic school picks top ventilation systems.

WindowMaster’s A-grade solutions helping reduce energy consumption

WindowMaster has been a vocal advocate of sustainable specifications for education, particularly focusing on natural ventilation and its ability to create a happier, healthier, and more productive learning environment.

The company recently played a significant role in a groundbreaking project at St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby. This school, the UK’s first biophilic school, incorporates the natural environment deep into its design.

The aim of the project was simple: to create a healthy, happy, and productive learning space by incorporating fresh air, natural daylight, and biophilic elements while maintaining low CO2 levels.

Let’s delve deeper into this innovative project…

Embracing sustainability

Sustainability was at the core of the project, with carbon neutrality as a primary goal. This meant that energy consumption and emissions needed to be minimised wherever possible.

During discussions about the Academy’s requirements, it became evident that ventilation was a crucial area where carbon footprint and energy costs could be reduced.

Traditional mechanical systems were ruled out due to their high operational emissions and maintenance needs. Using such systems would have made achieving the desired Net Zero outcome significantly harder.

After consultations with lead contractor Cundall, the project team decided to opt for a passive alternative. The project architects at Hawkins Brown settled on a Smart Windows Network. This system regulates fresh air circulation by automating the opening and closing of windows within a building’s interior.

It was unanimously agreed that this choice would ensure maximum fresh air circulation, lower CO2 levels, reduced maintenance needs, and lower energy bills.

Integrating the Smart Windows Network at St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy, Derby

Integrating and installing a Smart Windows Network requires a high level of expertise. This led the project team to engage WindowMaster – a leading specialist in natural and hybrid ventilation – to deliver the complete solution.

WindowMaster brought cutting-edge technology, high-quality components, and expert consultation to the project when they arrived on-site in August 2023. They integrated actuators and controls to ensure the system functioned seamlessly as part of this landmark project.

The school’s design necessitated 18 ventilation zones, achieved using 11 networked control panels and 18 intelligent CO2 and temperature sensors.

These sensors monitor indoor CO2, temperature, and humidity levels to regulate window opening times and maintain comfortable room conditions throughout the year. The NV Embedded® technology, unique to WindowMaster, allows for seamless integration with building management systems.

These controls were combined with WindowMaster’s smart actuators, including 90 OEM WMX 823 models fitted into VELFAC windows and 42 WMU 882 models installed on high-level modular roof lights. These actuators provide precise airflow control by offering millimetre precision during window operations.

Promoting optimal learning environments

Besides enhancing sustainability, WindowMaster’s systems provide optimal indoor air quality and maximum climatic comfort in learning environments.

Research shows the positive impact of continuous fresh air in educational settings on student focus and engagement. The Smart Window Network at St Mary’s constantly circulates fresh air without relying heavily on mechanical interventions. This ensures students have the necessary ‘brain food’ to learn and stay engaged.

Moreover, maintaining pleasant temperatures through the ‘NV Embedded’ system in coordination with building management systems keeps the carbon footprint low. To offer added flexibility, comfort control panels were installed throughout the site. These panels allow staff to customise classroom conditions based on internal and external atmospheric conditions, ensuring optimal ventilation.

David Brown, WindowMaster’s UK Director, commented on the new natural ventilation system, saying: “St Mary’s marks a new chapter in educational building design. It aims to enhance students’ physical and mental health by connecting them with nature. We understand the critical role that air quality and learning environments play in students’ health and development, which is why St Mary’s chose our ventilation systems. The school, piloted by the Department for Education, required a low-energy solution without compromising performance, and that’s where our technology excelled. We understood their objectives and delivered accordingly.”

To learn more about WindowMaster’s advanced ventilation solutions, visit https://www.windowmaster.com/.