Business Details
30 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Research Experts
Established in 1996, Gaia Group combines architecture, engineering, and sustainable design expertise to deliver innovative solutions for the built environment. Our interdisciplinary approach integrates research, design, and evaluation to advance eco-friendly construction practices. With a legacy dating back to 1984 through Gaia Architects and subsequent collaborations, we specialise in developing resource-efficient, healthy buildings without compromising affordability.Our team provides real-time guidance to clients and design teams, ensuring sustainable strategies are implemented effectively across projects ranging from single dwellings to master-planning. We maintain a commitment to post-occupancy evaluation and knowledge dissemination through training programs and publications, positioning ourselves as leaders in sustainable construction methodologies.
Services
Sustainable Design Consultation
Eco-Friendly Architecture
Building Physics Analysis
Renewable Technology Integration
Post-Occupancy Evaluation
CPD Training Programs
Policy Development
Community Consultation
Master-Planning
Research & Innovation
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of pioneering experience in sustainable construction since 1984
- Our interdisciplinary approach combines architecture, engineering and research expertise
- We deliver resource-efficient buildings without additional cost premiums
- Our real-time guidance supports clients through all project stages
- We lead industry training programs based on practical research findings
Services
Sustainable Design Consultation
We provide expert guidance on implementing sustainable strategies throughout construction projects. Our approach combines building physics with practical design solutions to optimise energy efficiency and occupant health. Services include real-time advisory support, performance benchmarking, and post-occupancy evaluation to ensure delivered outcomes meet sustainability targets.
Building Physics Analysis
Specialist analysis of thermal performance, ventilation systems, and daylighting strategies ensures optimal building functionality. We evaluate mechanical systems' necessity and promote natural alternatives to reduce long-term costs. Our work minimises energy consumption while maintaining comfort standards through rigorous scientific assessment.
Renewable Technology Integration
We implement solar, biomass, and other renewable technologies tailored to specific project requirements. Our approach prioritises system efficiency and build quality to ensure reliable performance. We specialise in integrating renewables with passive design principles for maximum environmental and economic benefit.
CPD Training Programs
Our training packages transfer decades of sustainable construction expertise to industry professionals. Covering passive design, material selection, and policy compliance, these programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical case studies. We deliver tailored sessions for architects, engineers, and construction teams.
Post-Occupancy Evaluation
We conduct comprehensive evaluations of completed projects to measure actual performance against design intentions. This data-driven approach identifies successes and areas for improvement, informing future projects and advancing industry best practices through continuous feedback loops.
People
Sandy Halliday
Principal, Gaia Research
Chartered engineer and sustainability expert with decades of interdisciplinary experience. Leads research initiatives and provides strategic guidance on eco-friendly construction. Author of the Sustainable Construction CPD series and developer of the RIBA Plan of Work 2013 sustainability guide.
Questions
What makes Gaia Group unique in sustainable architecture?
Our integrated approach combines architecture, engineering, and research with real-time project guidance. We focus on delivering high-performance buildings without cost premiums through innovative design solutions.
Do you work on residential and commercial projects?
We handle both sectors, from single dwellings to large-scale master-planning. Our portfolio includes housing, schools, commercial buildings, and community facilities across the UK and internationally.
How do you ensure sustainable buildings remain affordable?
By optimising design processes, minimising material waste, and promoting passive systems that reduce long-term operational costs. Our approach demonstrates sustainable construction can match conventional building budgets.
Can you assist with planning permission for eco-buildings?
Yes, we provide policy development support and help navigate regulatory requirements. Our expertise includes creating frameworks that align with local and national sustainability targets.
Do you offer training for construction professionals?
We deliver CPD programs covering passive design, renewable integration, and sustainable policy implementation. Training is tailored to architects, engineers, and construction teams seeking practical expertise.
How do you measure project success after completion?
Through post-occupancy evaluations that assess energy performance, occupant comfort, and environmental impact. This data informs continuous improvement in our design methodologies and industry practices.
