The 5th of June marked World Environment Day, a day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action to protect our environment.
McGurk Architects are committed to promoting sustainable architecture, incorporating nature where possible in our designs, and contributing to a greener future.
Some examples of the steps we’ve taken to positively impact our environment are:
1. Darah, The Guardian of the Sperrins: This giant sculpture is designed to help people connect with and respect nature. ‘Darah’, the Irish term for ‘Oak’, symbolizes protection. As the protector of the landscape and all its flora and fauna, Darah embodies our commitment to environmental stewardship.
2. Bunhill 2 Energy Centre: This pioneering scheme is the first in the world to utilize heat from an underground rail network, providing lower-cost, greener heating and cooling. It benefits 1,350 homes, two leisure centres, and a school.
3. Certified Passive House Designers: Our new build homes feature strategic window placement, high levels of insulation, and improved air tightness and ventilation, all designed to enhance comfort and reduce the carbon footprint. We consistently deliver ‘A’ rated homes for our clients.
4. Pomeroy Forest: Our recently completed forest trails are crafted to offer shared learning experiences and family adventures in a stunning woodland setting.
5. Adaptive Reuse: We champion reusing existing structures to reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and preserve heritage value. The Sport and Community Building for Clonard Boxing Club, once an old NIE substation, is a prime example.
6. Education Initiatives: We engaged three local schools in Davagh Forest to plant ‘the seven trees of Ireland’ and learn about biodiversity as part of a cross-community venture.
Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable world. 🌱