Exemplar Sustainable Building Awards: Retrofit project WINNER: Ward Grove

WINNER: Retrofit project category I 2025 Exemplar Sustainable Building Awards. Ward Grove is a whole-home transformation that demonstrates how deep retrofit can deliver exceptional energy performance, long-term comfort, and inclusive design—all within the constraints of an existing 1980s bungalow. Located in Urmston, Greater Manchester, the project has been certified to the AECB CarbonLite Retrofit Standard and achieves performance levels well beyond typical expectations for its type.

Designed by Progress in Practice (PiP) for a private client, the home has been carefully tailored to support accessible living without compromising on energy efficiency or aesthetics. Measures include high levels of insulation, airtight detailing, triple glazing, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and a 5 kW rooftop solar array with battery storage. A 6 kW air-source heat pump provides low-carbon heating and hot water via underfloor heating.

With a measured energy use intensity of just 21.8 kWh/m².yr and annual running costs of only £360, Ward Grove exceeds its space heating targets by 26% and delivers both environmental and economic value. The project also prioritises low embodied carbon through timber-based construction, natural finishes, and thoughtful material choices. More than a retrofit, Ward Grove redefines what an accessible, sustainable home can be.

Key Stats

Certification: AECB CarbonLite Retrofit, 2024

Date occupied: 2023

Treated Floor Area (TFA): 107 m²

Construction cost: £3,346/m²

Annual running costs: £360/year (£2.83/m²/yr)

Heat source: 6kW R32 air source heat pump with hot water cylinder and UFH

Overall energy demand: 25.9 kWh/m².yr

EUI (in use): 21.8 kWh/m².yr

Embodied carbon:

582 kgCO2e/m²(excl. sequestration)
301 kgCO₂e/m² (incl. sequestration)

Construction: Brick cavity walls retrofitted with EWI. Timber roof with cellulose insulation. New elements built in timber frame with wood fibre insulation. Natural materials exposed internally.