Wallace Whittle’s Approach to Above Ceiling Coordination in a Healthcare Environment

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Wallace Whittle’s Approach to Above Ceiling Coordination in a Healthcare Environment 

Our Approach to Above Ceiling Coordination in a Healthcare Environment 


Healthcare design and delivery is constantly evolving and now demands innovative approaches to coordination and communication. At Wallace Whittle, our BIM team plays a key role in this process, collaborating closely with engineers and partners to ensure seamless integration of building systems. Within the healthcare industry, where regulations exist to safeguard patients, early above ceiling coordination becomes fundamental.  

Prioritising patient care means that downtime for rooms or departments is not an option, therefore there is a significant focus, even during the early design stages, on delivering a design that allows for good access and maintenance that keeps the impact of the building users to an absolute minimum

Our team focuses on accommodating the requirements of MEP systems without compromising ceiling aesthetics or interfering with other building systems. Within healthcare, the sheer volume of systems means that there is a constant battle for space for the MEP services. A robust co-ordination strategy allows the space to be used as efficiently as possible, to allow the individual systems to be routed to where they need to go & be able to be constructed in a logical manner. This not only reduces risk to construction costs & programme, but also minimises the risk of errors. 

Through prioritising key components such as patient care, safety, sustainability, and cost efficiency, our teams can navigate the design process with precision and transparency, whilst adhering to current regulations and delivering results that exceed our clients’ & partners expectations. 

The healthcare industry has undergone massive changes in the aftermath of the pandemic, additionally the pandemic also altered our methods of co-ordination and communication. With our BIM team operating collaboratively across the UK already, our systems are optimised to allow clients and collaborators to access data quickly via the cloud, this removes the need for physical data transmission and eliminates the time required to manually process and audit information.

Our application of 2D & 3D software in the form of Building Information Modelling are powerful design management and coordination tools. BIM Models can be populated with valuable information that can then be analysed, driving a more effective design. Further developing this data in the later stages of design, fabrication and even construction provides our clients with data-driven information which can be valuable in operation and maintenance.  

Golden Thread

With patient care as a top priority within healthcare, a significant factor to consider with ceiling co-ordination is how information and data is recorded over time, and how it can be accessed in the future, should it ever need to be reviewed.

Golden Thread is a system our BIM team contributes to for one of our major healthcare sites, Monklands Replacement Project. It includes the information that allows someone to understand a building, and the measures needed to keep it, the people in and around it safe, both now and in the future. This is done through providing digital information, and describing the information management processes needed to identify, understand, manage, and mitigate building safety risks.  

This is especially important within healthcare as patient safety is paramount. Having a golden thread in place ensures that relevant information about these systems is stored accurately, safely and is also easily accessible for maintenance and for future reference.  

Digital Twins

With longevity and sustainability, a priority for many of our clients, our team can also support the implementation of Digital Twins. Digital twins allow you to visualise, monitor and optimise operational assets, processes, and resources by harnessing live data, even long after construction is complete. Digital Twins can help shed light on ongoing factors and even predict future data. This provides vital, real-time insights into performance and activity.  

At its core, a digital twin is essentially a ‘living’ version of the project and it’s a highly valuable addition to have. Digital twins offer healthcare facilities with the ability to visualise, monitor, and optimise their operations in real-time, leading to improved efficiency and sustainability. By harnessing live data and providing continuous insights into facility performance, digital twins support informed decision-making and proactive management of that healthcare environment, even long after our involvement. 

Why Wallace Whittle?

At Wallace Whittle we have a dedicated team of BIM technicians across the UK ready to co-ordinate with our engineers and third-party partners. Our technicians utilise the most modern technology to remove any time delays associated with data and information processing, whilst also prioritising the integrity of the building designs. Within healthcare above ceiling co-ordination plays a significant role in ensuring patient care and safety, Healthcare facilities are also subject to strict regulations and standards to ensure compliance with safety and quality requirements. ISO19650 is the key standard we align with and are audited against annually. We are also BIM Level 2 accredited, meaning our processes and procedures align with international standards.

This includes the strategic management of void spaces to accommodate essential components such as medical gas systems and ductwork crossover zones. 

When setting a void out, our team follows a systematic process that prioritises the sequencing of installations to optimise efficiency and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. For instance, in medical gas installations, voids are carefully planned and positioned to facilitate the final brazing process on-site, minimising disruptions and enhancing safety during construction. 

Similarly, in ductwork design, crossover zones are strategically identified and left open to streamline the integration of ventilation systems, aiding optimal airflow and environmental control within healthcare facilities. 

These considerations are our concern, they are the foundations of our co-ordination and collaboration. Our team are well versed in the complexities of above ceiling co-ordination and take pride in contributing to projects which unite multiple disciplines and provide design solutions efficiently and effectively.  


We are heading to Belfast for the IHEEM Conference & Exhibition May 14th & 15th, and we’d love to talk all things healthcare, visit this page for more info, or get in touch with our team today by emailing [email protected] 

Paul Underhill

Associate BIM Technician

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Highlighting: Healthcare

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Highlighting: Healthcare

Healthcare


Our experience in the Healthcare Sector spans over 20 years and is wide-ranging across new facilities and regeneration.

Since our last healthcare highlight we have seen the completion of Phase 2 of the Golden Jubilee Hospital with their Elective Care Centre, alongside the completion of The Crescent; a resource Centre in London, providing care to adults with disabilities. We’ve also seen significant progress in some of our other ongoing projects including Monklands Replacement Project!

Hospital Design & Engineering is at the heart of what we do, and as MEP consultants we consider HVAC systems, electrical systems, water, drainage, and other essential infrastructure to ensure seamless operation and efficiency of healthcare facilities.

We also prioritise green energy solutions, including Net Zero Carbon designs, optimising lighting systems, and implementing green building practices to reduce environmental impact and embodied carbon. Through assessing existing buildings and providing recommendations for renovations and improvements.


We’re heading to Belfast for the IHEEM Conference & Exhibition in May, and we’d love to talk all things healthcare, visit here for more information.

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Wallace Whittle Expands with New Offices in Manchester & Birmingham and Welcomes New Director

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Wallace Whittle Expands with New Offices in Manchester & Birmingham and Welcomes New Director

WWe're Growing!


We are expanding our presence in England with the opening of not one, but two new offices, and the appointment of a new Director. This strategic expansion of our operations in the North West and West Midlands mark a significant milestone in our growth trajectory, bolstering our national presence and allowing us to better serve our clients across the UK.

Having focused on organic growth in Scotland and Ireland, we are now venturing into new territory in Birmingham, alongside expanding our already well-established Warrington office with a new city centre space in Manchester. 

“We are proud to launch our new offices in Birmingham and Manchester,” said Allan McGill, Managing Director at Wallace Whittle. “These expansions signify a pivotal juncture for our company as we execute our growth strategies and extend our reach across the UK.” 

“Growth in England is pivotal to our Next Level aspirations for the company,” Allan added. “We are steadfast in our commitment to becoming a prominent player in the region, building upon our strong foundations in Scotland, Ireland and London.” 

Paul Dean, Manchester Director

Heading up the Manchester office is experienced Director, Paul Dean, whose wealth of experience and leadership will guide operations across both the Warrington and Manchester offices. Under his stewardship, Wallace Whittle aims to provide comprehensive regional coverage and deliver tailored solutions to clients in the Northwest of England. 

Paul said: “Having seen our success in the north-west grow during recent years thanks to our well deserved reputation for quality, innovation and delivery, opening an office in the centre of Manchester is a logical next step for our expansion as a business. With nearly 150 team members across Wallace Whittle, we’re perfectly placed to deliver quality on a wide range of project types, and this new office solidifies our recent growth.”

Darren Wright, Birmingham Director.

In Birmingham, we welcome Darren Wright as the new Director, leveraging his profound knowledge of the region to spearhead the establishment and growth of the office. Darren and his local team are primed to expand Wallace Whittle’s presence in the West Midlands and contribute to the company’s ambitious growth objectives. 

Darren, who previously served as Associate and Birmingham team leader at chapmanbdsp, expressed his enthusiasm about joining Wallace Whittle: “It’s a privilege to be joining an established brand in Wallace Whittle at such an exciting time and playing a key role in the expansion and growth plans within Birmingham and the wider central UK region. Promoting the company’s proud history of delivering quality of product and service is fundamental to maintaining our local existing client base and shaping relationships with new clients alike.”

The new offices in Birmingham and Manchester underscore Wallace Whittle’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service to clients nationwide. With a current team of over 30 staff across central England, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities ahead as we continue to expand our numbers and presence, and make a positive impact across the UK. 

We have a strong track record of supporting and developing new offices from zero to £1-2m in just a couple of years -if you are looking for a new challenge, like Darren, get in touch in confidence with our Managing Director, Allan McGill – [email protected]


If you would like to have a chat about joining the teams either of our new offices, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or check out the roles below.

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Shaping the Future at UKREiiF

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Wallace Whittle at UKREiiF 2024

WWe are heading to Leeds for UKREiiF - will we see you there?


Hosted by the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREIIF), the upcoming event stands as a pivotal platform where industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders converge to exchange insights and explore collaborative opportunities shaping the future of renewable energy and infrastructure investment.

Set amidst the vibrant heart of Leeds, from Tuesday 21st May to Thursday 23rd May, this annual gathering promises an engaging agenda. From keynote addresses to panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, it will encourage meaningful dialogue and drive actionable outcomes within the sector. With a keen focus on the latest trends, innovations, and investment strategies, we aim to gather invaluable knowledge and forge further strategic partnerships in this evolving landscape.

Our delegates, ready to contribute their expertise and perspectives, will engage in key discussions covering sustainability, market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies within renewable energy and infrastructure. But it’s more than just showcasing what we know—it’s about learning, collaborating, and growing together. Whether we’re sharing insights, brainstorming solutions, or simply swapping stories over coffee, we’re eager to meet with current and new connections.

We’re looking forward to the event, eager to catch up with many of our valued clients and collaborators, and explore new opportunities.

If you’d like to arrange a meeting over coffee or a drink, please reach out to our attendees below.

Darren Wright

Director, Birmingham

Paul Dean

Director, Manchester

Matt Graves

Director, London

Craig Robertson

Director, England

Stephen Osborne

Director, Edinburgh and Sustainability

Steven Dunn

Director, Scotland


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WWe're going to IHEEM Northern Ireland

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IHEEM, Northern Ireland

WWe are heading to Belfast for the IHEEM Northern Ireland Regional Conference & Exhibition.


As we continue to grow our Healthcare expertise from our Belfast office, we’re attending the Institute of Healthcare Engineering & Estate Management (IHEEM) NI Regional Conference this year, May 14th & 15th.

We are looking forward to attending the event, catching up with many of our valued clients and chatting over new opportunities.

If you’d like to arrange a meeting over coffee or a drink, please reach out to our attendees below.

Gavin McCausland

Director, Belfast

Paul Cooper

Director, Glasgow

Jonathan Blackhurst

Associate Director, Warrington

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Engineering the Future: Greg Smart

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Engineering the Future: Greg Smart

Engineering the Future: Greg Smart's Career Journey at Wallace Whittle


In an industry where convention often dominates, Greg Smart is a testament to the different pathways that can exist into the world of engineering.

Settled within our Aberdeen Office, Greg, now one of our brilliant Mechanical Engineers, brings a unique perspective shaped by over a decade of hands-on experience with Wallace Whittle. We recently spoke to him to delve deeper into his story, exploring the path to his apprenticeship and the insights he has gained along the way.

Having embarked on his engineering journey at 16, Greg is now a fully-fledged Mechanical Engineer with over a decade of work experience and his Honours Degree in Building Services Engineering, all before the age of 26.

“I joined Wallace Whittle in 2014 as a 16-year-old straight out of school. I always had an interest in technical work, but I knew I did not want to continue in full-time education, so the potential to gain a degree, whilst working full time was a big appeal.”

Coming straight from school, Greg spent time shadowing senior staff members, getting a grasp of the ropes, and leaning as much as possible. Gradually getting involved in larger projects and utilising tech.

“I was given proper responsibility on real tasks which was great, I began using IES (Integrated Environmental Solutions) a lot, and over time, I got more involved in design work, helping with interesting projects.”

We prioritise the continuous professional growth of our apprentices. We offer various avenues for development, including weekly CPDs and fully funded further education opportunities. In Greg’s case, he embarked on a journey to obtain his HNC by attending college one day a week for two years, all while maintaining his employment with Wallace Whittle, before moving on to University.

“In 2019, I began working towards my degree in building services engineering on a part time basis at Glasgow Caledonian University, graduating in 2023. During that time, I worked on a variety of projects for our Aberdeen office.”

At Wallace Whittle, we provide a supportive environment for our staff to thrive and further develop, and with our apprenticeship schemes, our junior staff have room to learn, question and make mistakes.

“The company is more than happy to enroll you in college and university, while exposing you to a variety of projects to help you develop as an engineer. They also have an Academy development program which offers in house training and a clear route to progress within the company.”

Our Academy is our internal training initiative designed to foster growth across four levels, each tailored to address specific areas of development within our workforce. At level three, Greg aspires to move towards level four soon. Levels three and four are dedicated to mentoring and cultivating our mid-level engineers and managers, nurturing them into future leaders in both management and business.

Our dedicated staff also play an integral role in guiding our apprentices along their journey, offering support both professionally and personally. With a team of 130 professionals spanning across the UK, we are fully devoted to embracing and assisting our apprentices as they navigate their path to growth and success! As Greg reflects on his decade-long tenure, he highlights the invaluable support he received from fellow Wallace Whittle staff, particularly his colleagues in the Aberdeen office.

“Over the last 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to work with several highly skilled engineers within the company who have helped me massively. Particularly, my colleagues in the Aberdeen office have been incredibly supportive during my time here, particularly Derek Andrew, Brian Doyle, Kevin Milne, Scott Paterson and of course, Andy Forbes our Director.“

With 10 years at Wallace Whittle under his belt, we wanted to know what Greg sees for himself next in his career, from leaving school to now having a degree and a chosen discipline in mechanical engineering.

“There have been numerous people who have been supported through university by Wallace Whittle who have gone on to have very successful careers, and I hope to continue my progress within our Aberdeen Office.”

As our conversation ended, we asked Greg’s for his tips for those contemplating an apprenticeship or a career at Wallace Whittle:

“For anyone who does not see themselves staying in school or going straight into further education, joining Wallace Whittle is a fantastic opportunity to pursue a challenging, but rewarding career, all whilst still having the chance to go gain a degree through the company sponsored trainee/apprenticeship scheme.

It was the best decision I could have made! Also ask as many questions as you can, you can never ask too many questions”

Aspiring engineers, like Greg, are welcomed to join our dynamic team and embark on their own fulfilling careers through our apprenticeship programs.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards a rewarding career in engineering, we invite you to apply for our apprenticeship opportunities today! Applications are accepted year-round, with our primary intake window occurring during the summer months.


Visit: Apprenticeships at Wallace Whittle

Or get in touch to discuss your experience and let’s see how we can bring you on board, email [email protected]

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Highlighting: Leisure

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Highlighting: Leisure

Leisure


Leisure spaces aren’t just places to relax and unwind—they’re the beating heart of communities. At Wallace Whittle, we understand the pivotal role these spaces play in shaping vibrant communities, and that’s why we’re dedicated to engineering leisure environments that prioritise comfort, enjoyment, and sustainability. 

More than just physical structures, leisure spaces serve as vital hubs where people come together to socialise, exercise or refresh. They foster community cohesion and mental well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, these spaces can be a sanctuary—a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with oneself and others. 

With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and community well-being, we’re engineering leisure spaces that stand the test of time, enriching lives and bringing people together. One of our recent projects, the University of St Andrews Sport Centre, achieved an Excellent BREEAM rating through Incorporating low carbon technologies along with passive low energy design. 

Some recent leisure projects include: 

    • Dundonald Links, Ayrshire 
    • Aberdeen FC Training Facility, Aberdeen 
    • Clydebank Leisure Centre, Clydebank 
    • Gleneagles Spa, Perthshire 
    • University of St Andrews Sport Centre, St Andrews 
    • Top Golf, Glasgow

And many more… 


Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our leisure expertise – [email protected]

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Shaping Future Leaders in Construction

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Wallace Whittle Academy: Shaping Future Leaders in Construction

Developing in-house talent is key to future-proofing our operations.


Developing in-house talent is key to future-proofing our operations. Our Wallace Whittle Academy focuses on four unique levels across our people, each distinctly targeting different areas of development.

Level 1 – All staff members.

Level 2 – Junior staff members.

Level 3 – Aspiring staff members.

Level 4 – Future generation staff members.

At Level 2, our Academy provides a consistent base level of training for our junior members, who are generally newer to the industry. We offer them support and guidance through their development, providing a chance to enhance their skills and grow their knowledge, preparing them for their journey with Wallace Whittle.

The Academy not only covers University or College fees but also provides a comprehensive curriculum, including specialized training in various aspects of the construction industry. With degree apprenticeships, part-time university courses leading to professional qualifications, and an array of specialist training, our Academy ensures that young staff at Wallace Whittle have the tools they need for success.

Our juniors are not only provided with the technical training required to deliver project information but also how to deal with delivery to provide a quality service in a timely manner. This includes meeting with and hearing from some of our Main Contractor and MEP Contractor partners, Architects, Civil & Structural Engineers, Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors to give a wider understanding of our industry.

Paul Hargreaves, Academy Manager commented “We have an excellent enrollment of level 2 Academy members from multiple disciplines, who are keen to learn and eager to develop, we feel it’s our duty to give them the opportunity they deserve, all they have to do is take it. We are already seeing great progress and feel that future projects will be in safe hands”.

As the industry undergoes changes and incorporates new technologies, our junior staff contribute a fresh perspective that plays a crucial role in futureproofing our methods and operations. We’re growing the next generation of Wallace Whittle engineers and staff, and we know the future of the company is in safe hands.

In line with expected growth across the business and planned offices in new locations we are forecasting to bring in a further 30 new junior staff over the coming three years with plans already in place to employ 10 degree apprentices throughout 2024 across the UK in Aberdeen, Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Warrington and London.


If you want to be part of this exciting growth, there’s never been a better time to join our team. Visit:

Apprenticeships at Wallace Whittle

Careers at Wallace Whittle

Or get in touch to discuss your experience and let’s see how we can bring you on board, email [email protected]

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Levelling Up the Next Generation at Wallace Whittle

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Levelling Up the Next Generation at Wallace Whittle

Wallace Whittle is taking the lead in growing the next generation of engineers and designers, ensuring the future of our company is in safe hands. 


At Wallace Whittle, we are committed to supporting our junior staff financially while looking to attract and retain the best new talent in the industry. Demonstrating our dedication to the future, we’ve undertaken a ‘levelling up’ exercise, paying an average of over 40% above the minimum wage for our WW:Academy Junior Level 2 staff across the business on top of College / University and ongoing training investments.

This financial investment is not just about providing opportunities but also recognising and rewarding the hard work of our junior staff. As we navigate industry changes and embrace new technologies, the fresh perspectives of our junior staff play a crucial role in futureproofing our operations. Wallace Whittle is taking the lead in growing the next generation of engineers and designers, ensuring the future of our company is in safe hands. 

'Buy One Get Two Free'


In the recent period, we have taken significant strides in nurturing young talent by bringing on board over 30 new young staff since our MBO in 2021. As part of our commitment to driving this staff growth forward, we’ve introduced a unique initiative – a ‘buy one get two free’ offer. When a regional office hires a junior staff member, head office steps in to cover the costs for another two, encouraging the expansion of our junior team across the business with the company, covering the cost of their development years while providing additional training support via the Academy.

This initiative reflects our belief in the potential of new talent and our dedication to providing opportunities for growth. By doubling down on our commitment to junior staff, Wallace Whittle is ensuring a continuous influx of fresh ideas and perspectives that contribute to the dynamic evolution of our company. 

In line with expected growth across the business and planned offices in new locations we are forecasting to bring in a further 30 new junior staff over the coming three years with plans already in place to employ 10 degree apprentices throughout 2024 across the UK in Aberdeen, Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Warrington and London. 

Join Our Team


If you want to be part of this exciting growth, there’s never been a better time to join our team. Visit:

Apprenticeships at Wallace Whittle

Careers at Wallace Whittle

Or get in touch to discuss your experience and let’s see how we can bring you on board, email [email protected]

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Navigating Change: Scotland's Section 6 Update

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Navigating Change: Scotland's Section 6 Update

Navigating Change: Scotland's Section 6 Update


Section 6 of the Scottish Building Standards Technical Handbooks is set to be updated from April 2024. The change is being named ‘The New Build Heat Standard’ (NBHS) and will affect the type of heating system that new build homes and buildings will be allowed to use. Any project where a building warrant is submitted from 1st April 2024 will be subject to the new regulations. So what does this mean for us, and what does it mean for you?

Heating Scotland’s homes and buildings is one of the biggest contributors of Scotland’s carbon emissions, with around 22%* of greenhouse gas emissions coming from our homes and workplaces, and the equivalent of 73.9% of Scotland’s total greenhouse gas emissions are associated with energy (i.e. the electricity, heat, transport and industry sectors)** The NBHS will help ensure new buildings will not contribute to emissions. Meaning people who buy new homes will know its future-proofed against the need to switch heating systems in the future. 

NBHS and Emission-Free New Buildings

NBHS is part of the Scottish Government’s wider Heat in Buildings Strategy, which aims for zero emissions buildings by 2045

The use of direct emission (or polluting) heating systems such as gas/oil boilers and biofuels will be banned, and alternative systems such as heat pumps and heat networks will be required instead. However, it is important to note the Build Heat Standard (NBHS) will not apply to emergency heating systems, or systems solely for frost protection. At Wallace Whittle we see this as a step in the right direction in terms of sustainability and a positive step forward industry wide. 

Neilston Learning Campus does not use any on-site fossil fuels and is 100% electric.

Transition to Sustainable Alternatives 

The Future Homes Building Standard has been created with the aim of decarbonising new residential buildings through enhancements in heating and hot water systems. This goal can be achieved by replacing current technologies with low-carbon alternatives.

Notably, the replacement of outdated and less efficient counterparts with high-quality building fabric and the adoption of low-carbon heating via heat pumps. The implementation of these changes, combined with supplementary regulations addressing existing homes, is expected to play a significant role in reducing the UK’s carbon emissions, contributing to the achievement of our 2050 net zero target. 

Maybole Community Campus does not use any on-site fossil fuels and is 100% electric,  with all-electric heating, hot water and heat recovery.

Wallace Whittle's Perspective

The landscape of sustainability is constantly evolving, and we see each challenge as an opportunity for growth and innovation. At Wallace Whittle we are used to navigating the complexities of change, but we take pride in actively shaping a future where our commitment to sustainability is not just a professional obligation but a shared ethos that drives positive impact. 

Sustainability is central to everything we do. We have been strongly advocating for these measures for years and we are delighted that the rest of the industry is moving in the right direction. We will continue to work with our clients to deliver the exemplary quality of service they have come to expect from us. We have a proven track record of delivering buildings which are best in class with respect to energy performance. Creating sustainable environments is crucial to our approach as a business. We know that we can only fulfill our purpose as designers if we can deliver sustainable and environmentally conscious buildings that support the wellbeing of all its occupants.  


At Wallace Whittle, we’re prepared for the New Build Heat Standard to come in in April in Scotland – We’d love to bring our expertise to your next project, get in touch with our Sustainability team today by emailing [email protected] or head to our LinkedIn to find out more about what we do. 

 

* Greenhouse Gas Emissions (2023) Scottish Energy Statistics Hub. Available at: https://scotland.shinyapps.io/Energy/ (Accessed: 16 February 2024).

** Office for National Statistics. (2022) Climate change insights, families and households, UK: August 2022, Climate change insights, families and households, UK – Office for National Statistics. Available

Scott O’Hara

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