Our Suppliers
Learn more about the talented people behind our retrofit project and hopefully you'll pick up a few tips for your own energy efficiency home improvements.
How the property will transform
We're adding two single storey extensions to increase the size and make it suitable for those with accessibility needs, such as step free access to the property and a downstairs wash room.
We'll also reconfigure the upstairs to make better use of the space. The house will also receive extensive TLC and decorating to make this house a modern and contemporary family home.
How we improved its energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions:
- Internal, external, ground and loft insulation
- Air source heat pump and underfloor heating
- Mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery
- Airtightness measures
- Solar panels
- Triple glazed windows
For 175 years, The Cambridge has been tackling housing challenges....
and now we're taking on one of the biggest yet.
Upgrading homes across the UK is key to cutting carbon emissions and reaching net zero by 2050. That’s where home retrofit comes in: improving energy efficiency, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and making homes warmer, more comfortable, and more affordable to run.
With 29 million homes needing upgrades, we’re showing what’s possible — starting with a typical 1930s semi-detached house.
Small steps, smart choices, big impact. Let’s make greener living achievable for everyone.
How we are supporting greener living
How we are supporting greener living
Our retrofit project
Join us on our journey to retrofit and renovate a 1930s Cambridge home for improved energy efficiency and learn together with us.
Find out moreSustainability statement
Find out more about our approach to sustainability.
About UsNet Zero housing challenge
The government has pledged for the UK to reach net zero emissions by 2050, which means there’s going to be a lot more focus on the homes we own and rent. Net zero is the point at which the number of greenhouse gases being put into the atmosphere is equal to the number that are being taken in.
22%
of UK carbon emissions come from our homes
(source: Energy Saving Trust)
28
million homes in the UK need some form of decarbonisation
(source: Decarbonising the UK's Homes: A Housing Stocktake, 2023)
1.5
homes will need to be upgraded every minute to reach net zero by 2050
(source: UK Green Building Council)
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Carbon emissions
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Airtightness
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What does ‘greener living’ mean to you?
Buying an electric car, recycling more, reducing your plastic usage? Or maybe buying from more sustainable brands.
There are lots of things we can do at home to help save energy and in turn support a more sustainable society. And as energy-efficient homes often have lower energy bills, it could help save you some pennies too.
We're taking some big steps to support homeowners with affordable and sustainable solutions to help reduce carbon emissions.
Supporting Us
We've enlisted the help of local experts and like-minded businesses who share our passion for a more sustainable future.
Our guides
We'll soon be sharing some useful tips and information on greener living and how to start your own retrofit.
Meet our partners
We could not have made this project a reality without the skills and expertise of a wide range of local experts and like-minded businesses who share our passion for a more sustainable future.
Koru is a team of skilled and experienced professionals committed to delivering exceptional construction services, from concept to completion. They blend innovation with reliability, creating spaces that inspire and last with a focus on sustainable practices.
PiP design and build low energy buildings; creating spaces that focus closely on maintaining the occupants comfort through minimal means. Their strategy considers sustainable design from the beginning with integrated subtle solutions in the architecture.
PiP ArchitectureRethink provides MEP design, strategy and assurance to building owners looking to decarbonise their portfolio
Rethink BuildingsRH Building Consultancy Limited offers Building Control Services in and around the Cambridge region.
RHBC LimitedAirway Group are dedicated, leading air conditioning specialists, committed to delivering exceptional comfort and reliability.
Airway Group
Solar specialists, electrical contractors and fire contracting providers
Spartek
Our Intelligent Airtight Liquid vapour control Passive Purple liquid membranes are BBA and Passivhaus certified.
Intelligent MembranesDaikin UK is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daikin Europe: a market leader in heating, cooling, ventilation, clean air and refrigeration technologies.
Daikin
Discover our retrofit journey
Delve into the behind the scenes story of why and how we are retrofitting a 1930s semi-detached house in Cambridge. Find out how we are improving its energy efficiency and reducing its carbon emissions, with lots of lessons to learn along the way.
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FAQ
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