Business Details
46 Years
experience
Sustainable Architects Specialising in Low Energy Building Design
Established in 1980, we are a leading architectural practice dedicated to sustainable, low-energy building design. With 40+ years of experience, our team of 60+ professionals operates from London, Glasgow, and Preston, delivering projects ranging from 100k to 100m across housing, education, commercial, and community sectors. Our fabric-first approach prioritises thermal envelope improvements through insulation, high-performance windows, and doors. We offer end-to-end services including feasibility studies, Passivhaus certification, BIM, and post-occupancy evaluations. Our expertise in retrofit and new build projects ensures measurable environmental benefits aligned with current energy conservation standards.We serve local authorities, housing associations, and private developers, combining technical excellence with a commitment to net-zero goals. Our in-house specialists provide fire safety assessments, energy modelling, and principal designer services under CDM and Building Regulations. Recognised through multiple awards, we maintain a client-centric focus on cost-effective, sustainable solutions. Our long-standing reputation reflects our dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship in architectural design.
Services
New Build
Retrofit
Passivhaus Design
Energy Assessments
Fire Safety Risk Assessments
BIM Services
Sustainability Consultancy
Post-Occupancy Evaluation
Principal Designer Services
Building Performance Analysis
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our team includes in-house Passivhaus-certified designers.
- We employ a fabric-first approach for measurable energy savings.
- We offer comprehensive services from feasibility to construction.
- We maintain BIM Level 2 certification for project precision.
Services
Retrofit
Our retrofit services decarbonise existing buildings through thermal envelope improvements, insulation upgrades, and energy-efficient systems. We specialise in EnerPHit-certified projects, delivering measurable energy savings while preserving structural integrity. Clients benefit from reduced operational costs and compliance with modern sustainability standards across commercial, residential, and educational sectors.
Passivhaus Design
We provide full Passivhaus design and certification services for new build and retrofit projects. Our expertise ensures ultra-low energy consumption through meticulous thermal modelling, airtightness strategies, and mechanical ventilation design. Clients achieve certified energy performance standards while maintaining architectural quality across housing, schools, and commercial developments.
BIM Services
Our BIM Level 2-certified services enhance project coordination through 3D modelling and data integration. We deliver clash detection, construction sequencing, and asset management solutions that improve efficiency and reduce costs. Clients gain accurate digital representations of buildings for improved decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
Fire Safety Risk Assessments
We conduct comprehensive fire risk assessments in accordance with Building Regulations and CDM standards. Our services include compartmentation reviews, evacuation strategy development, and remedial action plans. Clients receive actionable reports to ensure occupant safety and compliance for both new and existing buildings.
Principal Designer Services
As principal designers under CDM Regulations, we manage health and safety throughout the design phase. Our services include risk identification, coordination of design teams, and preparation of pre-construction information. Clients benefit from streamlined compliance and reduced project risks across all building sectors.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable new build design, retrofit projects, Passivhaus certification, BIM services, fire safety assessments, and principal designer roles under CDM regulations.
How long has ECD Architects been in operation?
We have been delivering architectural services since 1980, with a continuous focus on sustainable design and energy efficiency.
Which sectors do you work with?
We work across housing, education (schools and universities), commercial/industrial, community/leisure, and heritage sectors for both new build and retrofit projects.
What sustainability accreditations do you hold?
We have in-house Passivhaus-certified designers and maintain BIM Level 2 certification, with extensive experience in EnerPHit and net-zero building standards.
Do you offer nationwide services?
Yes, we operate across the UK with offices in London, Glasgow, and Preston, serving clients from initial concept to construction completion.
How do you ensure project quality?
We implement rigorous quality control through our fabric-first approach, post-occupancy evaluations, and multidisciplinary team of specialists in energy assessment and building physics.
