GRM Windows & Midlothian Council’s Passivhaus Developments at Burnbrae Road & Buccleuch Street
Project Overview
GRM Windows is proud to have played a pivotal role in delivering Midlothian Council’s first two Passivhaus developments: Buccleuch Street in Dalkeith – one building housing six flats, and Burnbrae Road in Bonnyrigg – two buildings encompassing a mixture of retail and residential properties.
Burnbrae Road, Bonnyrigg, one of the first affordable Passivhaus projects in Scotland. This landmark development comprises 20 high-performance homes along with a new retail unit. While all 20 homes were to be designed to achieve Passivhaus certification, the retail unit was only required to have a Passivhaus compliant envelope with double-glazed windows and steel security doors. Due to this unique challenge, the Passivhaus certifier, WARM, and Passivhaus Institute had to agree on a customised certification to make the project a reality. The average U-value targeted at design stage was 0.83 W/(m2K), across a total of 48 windows.
Buccleuch Street, Dalkeith. The project followed a similar specification to Burnbrae, and was delivered by contractor Morris and Spottiswood. This was to develop a new block of six flats and the refurbishment of a nearby existing building. However, the site was constrained and involved competing demands. The need for fire safety, structural stability, and space to house the mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system (MVHR) created conflicting needs that required adaptable solutions. The average U-value targeted at design stage was 0.87 W/(m2K), across a total of 32 windows.
Project Snapshot
| Location | Edinburgh |
|---|---|
| Property Type | Social Housing |
| Fabricator | GRM Windows |
| Year | 2023 |
| Product | GENEO Windows GENEO Doors |
| Colour | Anthracite Grey Smooth |
| Contractors | Fleming Buildings Limited |
| Passivhaus Certfied | Yes |
| Accoustic Reduction | 44dB reduction on Buccleuch Street |
GRM Windows’ Role
GRM Windows was selected as the specialist fabricator for this project due to our expertise in manufacturing high-performance uPVC windows that meet the stringent requirements of Passivhaus standards. We supplied all 80 REHAU GENEO Tilt & Turn windows, featuring an 86mm profile depth and RAU-FIPRO X fibre composite material. These windows offer superior thermal insulation, airtight seals, and enhanced security features, contributing to the overall energy efficiency and comfort of the homes. All 80 windows were supplied with anthracite grey exterior frames to match the modern design of the homes, and all Secure by Design certified for additional resident safety.
Richard Gambling, Managing Director at GRM adds: “The main challenge on this project was balancing all aspects of the design. By working in close collaboration with our glass supplier, we were able to test the GENEO to PAS 24 at a specific size for Buccleuch Street. We also achieved around 44dBA reduction on one elevation at the same time as meeting thermal and solar gain requirements of the Passivhaus design team. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support from REHAU – all queries from the designers and contractors were solved accurately and quickly.”
Collaboration and Innovation
The success of the Burnbrae Road development is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved. Architectural practice Smith Scott Mullan Associates led the design, ensuring that the project adhered to Passivhaus principles. Contractor Flemings Buildings Limited managed the construction, working closely with GRM Windows to ensure seamless integration of the window systems. The project also incorporated innovative materials, such as sheep wool insulation around windows, to further enhance its sustainability credentials.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Passivhaus is a rigorous building standard that ensures exceptional energy efficiency, comfort, and affordability. Windows play a fundamental role in achieving this certification, with meticulous attention paid to the choice of material, style and U-value of the frames to ensure the thermal insulation, airtightness, ventilation and the overall efficiency required was achieved. Midlothian Council’s commitment to this standard confirms its dedication to providing sustainable, low-energy homes for its residents.
Benefits to Residents and the Environment
Residents of the Burnbrae Road development can now enjoy homes that offer:
- Reduced Energy Costs: The Passivhaus design minimizes the need for conventional heating systems, leading to significant energy savings.
- Enhanced Comfort: Consistent indoor temperatures and superior air quality contribute to a comfortable living environment.
- Sustainability: The use of energy-efficient materials and construction methods supports Midlothian Council’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
GRM Windows is honoured to have contributed to this pioneering project, setting a new standard for affordable, sustainable housing in Scotland.
