Eclipse Passivhaus Leisure Centre
Passivhaus multi zone leisure centre
The Eclipse Leisure Centre in Staines-upon-Thames is a landmark project in sustainable design, setting a new benchmark as one of the largest Passivhaus-certified leisure centres in the world.
Designed by GT3 Architects with Gale & Snowden Architects (acting as Passivhaus designers), and delivered by Willmott Dixon, the centre exemplifies excellence in low-carbon construction and community-focused architecture.
The project has won several awards since opening in 2024.
image by kind courtesy of GT3 Architects
Key Highlights:
- 25 m main pool, learner pool, spa zone, fitness suite, sports hall, squash courts studio space, cafe, creche, clip ‘n’ climb
- Passivhaus design achieved through super-insulated fabric, optimised MEP design and optimised layouts and orientation
- Multi thermal zones, separated and stacked from warm to cool
- Airtightness levels below 0.4 m³/hr/m² = 0.12 air changes per hour!!
- 60–70% less energy than comparable leisure facilities
- Innovative MEP design – humidity stratified pool hall ventilation and polyvalent air source heat pumps recovering waste heat
Involvement
- We acted in a supporting role, working closely with the main contractor Willmott Dixon, Passivhaus consultants – Gale & Snowden Architects, and the Passivhaus Institute.
- Our responsibilities included coordinating and verifying all stringent commissioning and controls requirements to ensure compliance with Passivhaus energy targets. In addition, we acted as the specialist Passivhaus MEP consultant, providing final coordination and oversight to assist with achieving full Passivhaus certification.
Benefits delivered
- As specialist Passivhaus designers with an in depth understanding of commissioning and controls in complex systems, we coordinated and reviewed controls and commissioning data, liaising with multiple subcontractors to ensure compliance with the unique Passivhaus requirements.
- In addition, we worked closely with the Passivhaus Institute, relaying this information to meet all certification requirements.
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