Environmental Practices & Sustainable Construction

Our environmental principles

We integrate sustainability throughout specification, procurement, construction, and handover, guided by these key actions:

Responsible Materials

FSC certified timber for joinery and framing
Low VOC paints and finishes that improve indoor air quality
Recycled aggregates and reclaimed bricks
Breathable lime plasters, clay plasters, and Clayworks finishes
Natural insulation (sheep wool, cork, wood fibre) where feasible

Waste & Pollution

Segregated waste streams and recycling on site
Supplier take back for packaging where agreed
Dust suppression and minimal noise out of hours
Low emission site vehicles and tool hire where possible
Post project waste reporting for clients tracking ESG metrics

Energy Efficiency

Fabric first approach to reduce heat loss
Insulation upgrades and airtightness detailing
Specification of A rated glazing and doors
Energy efficient lighting and controls
Heat pumps or underfloor heating where desired

Greening & Biodiversity

Support for client planting schemes and green roofs
Native species selection with landscape architects
Bat and bird boxes where appropriate
Permeable paving and sustainable drainage
Rain gardens and water retention for urban greening

Retrofit and fabric first

Where the brief allows, we incorporate external or internal insulation, airtight membranes, upgraded windows, and low energy heating to significantly reduce operational carbon.

We've delivered whole house retrofits with clay plaster, underfloor heating, and near PassivHaus standards of insulation in period properties across London, all while respecting heritage character.

Implementation on site

We integrate sustainability into day to day delivery, not just design intent.

• Eco site plan agreed at pre start
• Delivery consolidation to reduce transport emissions
• Preferred suppliers for FSC timber and low VOC paints
• Landlord and local authority compliance where needed
• End of project environmental summary for the client

For deeper retrofit or net zero targets we can work with your architect, QS or environmental consultant to phase measures sensibly.

Daylit kitchen with trailing plants and timber joinery supporting sustainable materials

Materials we like to show in our work

Natural/breathable materials, planted interiors, and low tox finishes that support healthier living.

Bathroom with natural elements and potted plant for low-VOC finishes — Bathrooms using low VOC and moisture tolerant finishes.

Garden-opening living area for biodiversity and outdoor access — Indoor outdoor transitions for light, air, and planting.

Rear extension with landscaping and planters for reduced waste landscaping — Landscaped exteriors with local materials and careful waste control.

Utility room with oak counters and ceramic sink to support durable, low-embodied-carbon materials — Utilities built from durable, renewable, repairable components.

Partnerships for greener construction

We work with suppliers and consultants that can evidence product origin, embodied carbon data, and responsible chains of custody.

Where clients request it, we can align project documentation to your ESG or net zero strategy, including waste reporting, delivery mileage notes, and product certifications.

Lamabuild environmental and trade accreditations

Practical steps towards greener construction