Natural-ventilation strategy is key to low-energy strategy for Honda car showroom
Contributing to the successful energy strategy of the new 600 m2 Honda car showroom in Romford is Passivent natural ventilation. The energy requirement has been reduced by over 80% compared with traditional showroom design and a ‘very good’ BREEAM rating achieved. The building also meets the local-authority requirement of at least 10% of energy needs produced on site using renewable energy.
The services solution devised by consultants Cunnington Clark uses Passivent Aircool inlet louvres at low and high level and Airstract roof terminals.
The 36 modulating wall and ceiling Aircool units draw fresh air into the space as required to maintain internal air temperature and CO2 at preset levels. Warm, used air is exhausted through the six roof-mounted Airstract terminals. The system operates overnight to cool the building.
Other features of the building include underfloor heating, a ground-source heat pump and high thermal mass.
Dean Barker of Cunnington Clark explains, ‘We modelled the building using Passivent motorised louvres at both high and low level and roof-mounted terminals. The concept has been used to great effect in offices and schools, and we felt the same technology would work in a showroom.’
