We are thrilled to share the news that the Wave has officially achieved BREEAM Outstanding accreditation.
The Wave’s BREEAM Outstanding accreditation reflects the Wave’s exceptional design and construction, which incorporates a range of cutting-edge sustainable technologies and practices.
The Wave: A BREEAM Outstanding Building
Supporting the university’s ambitions to reach net zero across the estate by 2030, the Wave is the university’s all-electric, net zero carbon in operation enabled building, with an EPC A rating. The BREEAM Outstanding accreditation reflects the Wave’s exceptional design and construction, which incorporates a range of cutting-edge sustainable technologies and practices. Among its many features are ground source heating, photovoltaic panels, and low water fittings, all of which contribute to reducing the building’s energy consumption and environmental impact. The building’s high thermal mass further enhances its energy efficiency, while its innovative sustainable drainage system, including blue roofs and rain gardens, not only manages rainwater but also boosts biodiversity on the site.
Bringing the Faculty of Social Sciences together
The Wave is a 16,600sqm building for the Faculty of Social Sciences, designed to meet future growth demands to the year 2035 and provide a world class, highly sustainable environment that encourages collaboration and enhances the faculty’s reputation for excellence in teaching and research.
The Wave provides shared facilities for the whole faculty and is now the base for five departments: Sociological Studies, Journalism, the School of Education, Sheffield Methods Institute, and the Information School. The all-electric, BREEAM Outstanding facility is a public building supporting not only students, but also providing a community asset with a public cafe and pocket parks adjacent to both entrances. These provide a much needed social space for students, local residents and visitors to the hospital.
“We are delighted to hear the news that the Wave has achieved BREEAM Outstanding. This is a fantastic achievement and is a true reflection of the University of Sheffield’s commitment to sustainability and providing a world-class environment for education and research.” Karl Brown, Associate, HLM Architects
As the University of Sheffield continues to pursue its net zero goals, the Wave’s and its BREEAM Outstanding certification stands as an exemplar of what is possible when innovation, sustainability, and excellence in higher education intersect. HLM and the university look forward to the continued impact this building will have on users, the environment and the broader Sheffield community.
