NABERS DfP for Havelock

CHALLENGE

The landlord wanted to future proof this 72,000 sq ft prime office building, originally built in 2001, operating with an EPC rating of ‘D.’ It has a dated appearance, failing facades, and a large inefficient atrium and core. The challenge was to maximise the value of the asset whilst meeting the client’s environmental and social performance aspirations to create building fit for the future. 

SOLUTION

First, we carried out a whole life carbon optional appraisal to evaluate the environmental impact of strategic options for the Site: light refurbishment, deep retrofit, and new build. Armed with robust early-stage data, the project team identified the optimal path forward, a back-to-frame retrofit with extension resulting to an increase of net internal area to 105,000 sq ft.

To ensure the design was also operationally efficient, the Savills Earth team provided a formal NABERS UK Design for Performance (DfP) verification service, verifying the design approach, optimising the design specification, instilling good management practices and supporting the certification process.

RESULTS

The deep retrofit and NABERS UK strategy saved 4 million kg CO2e compared to a new build scenario over the lifetime of the asset and an estimated 70% reduction in operational energy compared to ‘business as usual.’ 

The building achieved a NABERS UK 5-star rating, placing it in the top 1% of office buildings in Manchester—and making it one of the first retrofits in the city to reach this benchmark. Havelock was recognised at the BCO Northern Awards 2025 receiving a Highly Commended distinction in the Refurbished/Recycled Workplace category.