DfE Spec21 – Proof that You Deliver Results By Demanding More

Image by Bowmer + Kirkland

Where there’s a will there’s a way, as the saying goes. And maybe the biggest lesson from the DfE Spec21 output specification for schools is that rapid progress towards net zero is sometimes a matter of saying ‘this is how it’s going to be’.

Standardisation

Discussing the implications of S21 with the RIBA Journal, the Department for Education’s head of architecture and design: schools and colleges, Crawford Wright, stressed how standardisation and predictable performance go hand-in-hand.

‘If we can standardise what we know works more, we can get even better at producing good schools.’

By using panelised platforms, the design process becomes more about using standard design elements and configuring them to make the best use of the site dimensions and orientation.

Is Net Zero Embodied Carbon on the Way?

The DfE has the ambition of further updating the spec by 2025 to include embodied carbon performance. Delivering net zero embodied carbon within that time frame makes it inevitable that designers will need to incorporate a significant percentage of structural timber into new buildings.

Again, this isn’t new ground. Innovaré’s panelised building systems have a substantial structural timber content to counteract the high embodied carbon levels resulting from steel, concrete and the construction process itself.

Our carbon calculator tool shows how it’s possible with existing construction systems to design school buildings that are net zero over the entire lifecycle.

The current energy crisis is hopefully focusing minds on carbon reduction. The DfE example shows how net zero solutions are deliverable through the right technical solutions and determined and enlightened procurement.

If you’d like to know more about how Innovaré panelised building systems can transform project outcomes contact enquiries@innovaresystems.co.uk or take a look at our resource centre.