GROUSE GRANGE

COMMERCIAL PROJECT

Grouse Grange

Market-leading energy efficient homes

West Sussex


In early summer 2022, we were contacted by the boutique domestic property developers, Pivot Developments, for support on their latest project. Working with the award-winning architects Ecotecture, Pivot were planning to build a community of four three- and four-bedroom modern homes.


Based in a suburban location, Grouse Grange sits on the outskirts of the village of Copthorne on the Surrey/West Sussex border. Copthorne itself is a sociable village with a historic cricket club and an annual carnival which has been parading through the centre each year for over half a century.


Despite the seemingly rural setting, the site lies close to Gatwick airport and is just over 25 miles south of London, 20 miles north of Brighton, offering convenience and accessibility for commuters and day trippers alike. The perfect location then for high-quality, modern family homes. 

How we helped

  • Feasibility study for different M&E solutions


  • Building fabric optimisation


  • Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for energy performance 


  • Water efficiency calculations in line with Part G 


  • Energy statement detailing how plans with meet local authority efficient standards

Grouse Grange, West Sussex

The goal for the new development was to test out the feasibility of market leading energy efficient homes that remained cost effective. The project was in the concept design stage when Mesh came on board, which enabled us to support the client before planning was submitted.


The proactive nature of this choice ensured we could work towards the client’s vision, while keeping costs under control from the start, and was testament to Pivot Development’s dedication to creating truly sustainable builds. 


The vision was led by the Energy Hierarchy framework of “be lean (energy saving), be green (renewable sources), be clean (low emissions)”. This approach formed a significant part of their submission to the local planning authority and guided many of the decisions made about the project.


Taking a fabric first approach, we considered ways to increase levels of insulation and air tightness, including window and door choices that far exceeded minimum U value requirements. We also looked at ways to reduce water and energy wastage, from solar PV with the capacity to use excess energy for water heating and MVHR with preheater functionality, right down to outlet heat exchangers in the shower.

The results:

The project achieved a 98% energy efficiency and environmental impact rating, which is estimated to save home owners up to 75% of energy costs compared to the average UK home. The properties also achieved an EPC rating of A. Sadly, only 0.2% of homes in England and Wales achieve this rating, and only 3% of new builds adding to that amount, but with more projects like Grouse Grange, we hope to see that percentage grow for the sake of our environment and bank balances.

The properties achieved an EPC rating of A and an estimated saving of 75% of energy costs compared to a typical UK home.

Project architect:

Ecotecture

Developer:

Pivot Developments

Share by: