Student accommodation

London’s first net-zero-carbon PBSA development

K2 is working in partnership with longstanding client Unite Students, to deliver a unique development in West London. It will be London’s first net-zero-carbon student accommodation development both in terms of construction and operation.

K2 has worked closely with Unite to develop its design and construction strategies over ten individual developments across the UK. A key element of this partnership is the sustainability strategy, as exemplified by Baltic Wharf.

It will be one of the UK’s most environmentally sustainable purpose-built student accommodation properties – featuring: Fully net zero carbon building in construction and operation; 1400m2 of green landscaping; harvested rainwater; 100% renewable sources of heat and electricity

Improving the public realm

The 843-bed accommodation block will be made up of a series of stepped roof gardens, continuing the green ribbon of trees and landscaping which currently runs alongside the canal. Travis Perkins, which has occupied the site for more than 50 years, will continue to operate from the site.

Throughout the development an area larger than 7 tennis courts – will be planted with grasses and shrubs, including most of the building’s roof terraces. In total the extensive landscaping will lead to 850% uplift in biodiversity across the entire site.

A new canal-side path will also be opened at the side of the development to provide a vital connection for the surrounding communities. Up to 10,000 litres of rainwater will be harvested from the building’s roof terraces, some of which will be used to flush toilets. A giant sponge layer across the roof area, capable of storing enough rainwater to fill a single decker bus, will also be used for irrigation.

Net zero

This fits within Unite Students’ sustainability strategy, which was launched in 2020 and includes a commitment to achieve net-zero carbon operations and construction by 2030. Construction is due to commence on site during 2022.