The Architects’ Journal Architecture News & Buildings
This episode with AJ 40-under-40 practice Editional Studio concludes our mini-series on domestic retrofit. Jo and Jack argue that while the profession has the technical know-how to achieve upwards of 75% savings in domestic retrofit, we have yet to fully tap the creative potential of adapting and upgrading our existing homes.
Perceiving a barrier in clients’ grasp of the carbon implications of retrofit design choices, Editional Studio applied for and won an RIBA Research Fund grant which enabled them to explore this subject in detail during the pandemic. Peer-reviewed by several other practices prior to publication, Decarbonise Your House Now! has proven popular with both clients and fellow architects.
Each recommended retrofit measure is assessed in terms of ‘trigger points’ (if you’re doing X, consider Y) and ‘related opportunities’ (if you’re doing x, consider the optimal low carbon approach). Launched in late 2021, Decarbonise Your House Now! forms the basis of an ongoing exhibition in Editional Studio’s studio shopfront in Manchester’s Chorlton neighbourhood.
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About Jack Richards and Jo Sharples
Jack and Jo met on their first day at Manchester School of Architecture in 2008. After several years in London, they returned to Manchester to cofound Editional Studio in a derelict balloon shop in 2018.
Jo worked at Caruso St John Architects and Casswell Banks Architects where she led numerous retrofit projects. She teaches an MArch studio focused on retrofit and reuse at the University of Sheffield.
Prior to setting up Editional Studio, Jack worked at AOC, Karakusevic Carson Architects, and Hodder + Partners. He teaches a second year studio at the University of Sheffield and is an accredited Retrofit Coordinator.
Editional Studio - Shady Nook - Model View
Show notes: Projects and resources mentioned in this episode
RIBA Research Fund – Decarbonise your House Now! (scroll down)
Deansgate Square, Manchester
Editional Studio - Shady Nook - View 2
Credits
Climate Champions is produced in association with ACAN, the Architects’ Climate Action Network
Podcast produced and edited by Concept Culture
Music: Edmilson do Pífano, Forró de dois Amigos. Interpretation: Felipe Tanaka e banda Balaio de Baião