A £3million building at the University of Bradford has achieved the energy efficiency ‘Passivhaus’ standard.

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) building, built by GB Building Solutions, was constructed using a fabric-first approach, high levels of insulation, high performance windows and doors, airtight building fabric, ‘thermal bridge free’ construction and mechanical heat recovery systems.

GB Group executive chairman Martin Smout said: “Achieving Passivhaus at the STEM building has provided a tremendous boost for everyone involved in the design and construction process.

“Clients like the University of Bradford are increasingly demanding an in-depth understanding of low- carbon techniques and practices in order to comply with new legislation and standards aimed at creating a more energy-efficient built environment.“ The university’s estates manager for engineering and building, Russell Smith, said: “Reducing our impact on the environment is a huge achievement, not least the part the STEM building plays in that programme, being one of the few buildings ever to hold three efficiency standards.”