Durley Chine Environmental Hub
A Passivhaus certified model for low-energy, reclaimed architecture.
The Environmental Hub at Durley Chine represents a bold step forward in sustainable design and environmental education. Commissioned by BCP Council, this Passivhaus certified, timber-framed structure is a beacon of low carbon innovation, showcasing what can be achieved beyond traditional construction pathways. Designed to be Net Zero in operation, the Hub integrates low embodied energy construction.
Funded by £2.4 million from the Coastal Communities Fund, the Hub is a testament to what can be achieved through a commitment to sustainable design and environmental education. It embodies BCP Council’s vision of becoming a Green Economy Leader. With around 2,000 tons of waste removed from Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole beaches annually, the Hub serves as a focal point for BCP Council’s efforts to educate the public on waste reduction and recycling.
By rethinking traditional construction methods and prioritising sustainability, the Hub not only provides immediate environmental benefits but also serves as an inspiration and educational tool for future generations. The integration of reclaimed materials, energy-efficient systems, and eco-friendly construction practices ensures that the Environmental Innovation Hub will continue to make a positive impact long into the future.
Award-Winning Sustainable Design
We re-used 52 Tons of hardwood for cladding and structures. Low carbon concrete used 80% less cement. 90sqm PV Panels achieve 100% forecasted regulated energy loads. The use of recycled newspaper insulation, local sand and aggregates as building materials, a Passivhaus certified education space, and biodiversity enhancements all reduce this buildings carbon footprint.
Embodied Carbon 172kg CO₂e/m2
Sequestered Carbon 225kg CO₂e/m2
Upfront Carbon 210kg CO₂e/m2
Where Coastal Character Meets Environmental Learning
The reclaimed timber directly reflects the groynes and beach location, the green roof canopy enhances integration with the local cliff setting.
Learning for a Greener Future
A dedicated space for public education on sustainability and waste management to promote environmental responsibility and community engagement.
” Together with a brilliant design and delivery team, Footprint Architects have produced a building made from predominately salvaged and recycled material, performing to extremely ambitious whole life carbon figures. In addition the building actively encourages people to reuse and recycle. Let’s hope it impacts upon the people who have the good fortune to visit this building.”
- Duncan Baker Brown, Architect and Author of RIBA's 'The Re-use Atlas'
Designing an Eco-Friendly Community Hub
The Environmental Hub is focused on creating a positive and immersive educational experience, highlighting the importance of sustainability. The design includes educational, welfare, and exhibition spaces, promoting awareness and encouraging behavioural change in waste management and recycling. By reducing unnecessary spaces and finishes, and incorporating natural materials, our team aimed to minimise the environmental impact from the earliest design stages. The result is a functional, flexible space that educates the public on sustainable practices while maintaining a low carbon footprint.
Innovative Sustainable Design
Durley Chine Environmental Hub is constructed using reclaimed groyne timbers and features a living roof canopy planted with native species. This Passivhaus certified building utilises various recycled materials such as decking from a decommissioned German submarine base, newspaper insulation, and a kiosk built from locally sourced sand and aggregate.
The Design also incorporates:
- Recycled newspaper insulation for high thermal efficiency
- Natural materials including 52 tons of reclaimed groynes directly from Bournemouth Beach
- Elimination of plastics. Ensuring all materials are either recyclable or sourced from recycled origins
- Biodiversity enhancement through planting of native species on the green roof canopy
- Bathroom IPS Panels made from recycled bottles
- Low carbon concrete using up to 80% cement substitutes to further reduce the carbon footprint
Embodying a Reduce, Re-use, Recycle Concept
We re-used 52 tonnes of hardwood for cladding, and structure which was taken directly from BCPs’ timber yard. The Hub’s energy needs are met through on-site PV panels, ensuring it operates as a Net Zero Carbon development. The Passivhaus certification guarantees excellent thermal performance, reducing energy consumption and maintaining a comfortable internal environment.
At Durley Chine Environmental Innovation Centre the buildings are designed to be taken down and recycled to form part of a circular economy with elements being durable enough to be re-purposed in the future. By using a modular timber-framed build constructed off-site, disruption to the local community was minimised, and the overall carbon footprint was reduced. We used low carbon concrete – incorporating up to 80% cement replacements taken from by-products of other industries and steel re-enforcement designed-out in the majority of structures.
Awards & Publications
Awards:
RIBA South West and Wessex Award 2024
RIBA South West & Wessex Building of The Year Award 2024
RIBA South West & Wessex Sustainability Award 2024
Constructing Excellence UK Sustainability Award 2023
Wood Awards 2023 Commercial & Leisure – Highly Commended
Built By Nature 2025 – Commendation
Publications:
Relevant Projects
Designing a Specialist Creative Arts and Social Centre for Individuals with Diverse Learning Abilities
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