Homes for Heroes – RETROFIT
Boot Houses, Barnes – London
This large-scale retrofit project involves upgrading over 200 homes in Barnes, London, for Richmond Homes Partnership (RHP).
RHP secured government funding through Wave 2.2 of the Social Housing Decarbonization Fund (SHDF). These grants have since been rebranded as SH:WH – Social Housing Warm Homes.
Our team is serving as the Retrofit Designer under the PAS 2035 framework, ensuring that all work meets the highest standards for energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Once completed, the project will be officially lodged with TrustMark, the government-endorsed quality assurance scheme.
Key Outcomes
Our design work allows the homes to be considerably improved. We operate with the PAS2035/2030 protocols. The life of the properties will be increased, providing comfortable and healthy environments for the residents, also saving energy & reducing fuel bills. The works are implemented to very high standards.
Our Approach
The Boot Houses in Barnes were originally built in the 1920s as part of the Homes for Heroes program, following World War I.
Due to a post-war brick shortage, these homes were largely prefabricated. They were constructed using precast concrete columns and clinker infill panels, which were then rendered. While innovative for their time, this construction method presents unique challenges when it comes to modern energy efficiency upgrades.
Boot houses are particularly poor at retaining heat, and the soft clinker walls make it difficult to install traditional external wall insulation (EWI). To address this, we worked closely with insulation manufacturer Permarock and specialist installers to develop effective, secure fixing methods tailored to this unique structure.
Our solution significantly reduces thermal bridging—an essential factor in preventing condensation and the risk of mould—while enhancing the energy performance of these historic homes.
Our Process
Working on behalf of the Project Manager (FFT) and in collaboration with the Retrofit Coordinator (EEC – Energy Efficiency Consultants), we provided expert guidance to the construction team and specialists, helping to develop clear, practical construction details tailored to the unique challenges of the Boot houses.
We maintained close communication throughout the design and installation phases, ensuring that all retrofit measures were technically sound and aligned with PAS 2035 standards.
The contractor, Mulalley, also brought significant value to the project through their strong community liaison team, ensuring a smooth, respectful experience for residents throughout the works.
The Results
A considerable improvement environmentally and aesthetically.
- Customer Richmond Homes Partnership
- Field Residential Social Housing
- Location Barnes, Richmond
- Year 2025
