The results of a groundbreaking two-year joint study conducted by Cundall, Morgan Sindall Construction, and HLM Architects have been unveiled, showcasing the remarkable findings of their innovative research initiative, Regenerative Twin. It demonstrates what can be achieved by moving beyond traditional carbon reduction measures in the built environment.

The study explored how construction projects can start to regenerate natural and social ecosystems. Using the example of a South Wales secondary school Morgan Sindall Construction completed in 2021, the researchers applied a regenerative lens to the early stages of the design process to answer this question: What would happen if we re-thought procurement and design, putting regenerative principles before capital expenditure?

The results show that whole-life carbon emissions on the school could be reduced by 84%, while upfront embodied carbon dropped by 66%. Annual energy consumption was lowered by 45%. Water consumption in materials manufacturing was cut by 90%, and whole-life costs were maintained at 95% of the original scheme, with capital cost increases offset within 11 years.

Commenting on the outcomes of the study, Alex Carter, Partner at Cundall said, “Regenerative Twin is an extensive two year long research project that resulted in cutting edge solutions to reducing carbon on projects. We have taken away several lessons from the project, and we have truly pushed the boundaries on what is achievable. The team collaboration was essential to decarbonise the project but the real learning relates to moving beyond convention and developing a whole team regenerative mind-set and delivering Regenerative outcomes for the built environment. Research projects like this that challenge the "business as usual" approach and drive Regenerative thinking across multiple built environment organisations are crucial in building momentum within the construction sector on the topic. We are grateful for the opportunity to participate with HLM Architects along with other industry partners and particularly to Morgan Sindall for having the ambition to make it happen..”

The team followed a structured, step-by-step methodology. They started with a Project Transition Plan – documenting past, present, and future conditions of the site and its wider context. Other stages unpacked the balance of risk and opportunities as different options were explored, while work was also completed around agreeing and understanding metrics. By the time they reached the Design Development and Outcome Modelling stage the researchers were able to evaluate different design options to identify an optimal solution that balances performance, cost, and impact.

The project also explored a mix of common and less common materials and methods to maximise regenerative benefits. Some of the highlights include cross-laminated timber (CLT) for walls and floors; reclaimed masonry for sub-structures; sheep’s wool and hemp insulation; charred timber facades for durability; blue roofs for rainwater attenuation; 100% recycled plasterboard; and a flexible design that allows for future community use.

“These outcomes highlight what’s possible when we think beyond conventional sustainability,” said Tim Clement, Director of Social Value & Sustainability at Morgan Sindall Construction. “We want to challenge the status quo and inspire debate – and believe the results demonstrate that regenerative construction is a helpful ambition to work towards.”

Philip Watson, Chair and Head of Design at HLM Architects said: “The Regenerative Twin research builds on the Circular Twin study, winner of the AJ100 Sustainability Initiative of the Year 2022. It represents an honest and brave attempt to openly grapple with the current challenges of delivering regenerative design solutions. Studies like this are critical to drive change in use of materials and supply chain to address the climate crisis. Perhaps most importantly, the study shows how we need to think more deeply about the impact of design choices in relation to the impact on the local economy and community cohesion.”