Yorkshire Energy Systems Wins Prestigious LABC Award for Smithy Cottage Project
We’re thrilled to announce that Yorkshire Energy Systems has won the LABC Award for our exceptional work on the Smithy Cottage retrofit project!
This project posed a unique challenge: integrating modern renewable energy technologies into a historic 18th-century listed building, while preserving its original character. Rather than focusing solely on insulation or cosmetic renovations, we aimed to make Smithy Cottage energy-efficient through innovative means. We installed a solar panel system and a heat pump without altering the property’s appearance.
Our approach wasn’t just about meeting today’s energy demands—it was about ensuring that historical properties can embrace sustainability too. The heat pump was cleverly concealed, and the solar panels were installed with minimal visibility, allowing the cottage to maintain its classic look. This seamless integration of renewable energy systems into a historically sensitive site was the key factor that impressed the LABC judges.
What Made This Project Special?
The LABC judges highlighted our ability to balance cutting-edge renewable technology with the preservation of a centuries-old building. Our method goes beyond standard retrofitting. We didn’t just add technology—we made sure it was nearly invisible, blending with the environment and maintaining the architectural integrity of Smithy Cottage.
The combination of a discreet heat pump and solar energy provided a sustainable energy solution that significantly reduced the property’s carbon footprint. These innovations didn’t just make the home greener; they showed that historical preservation and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.
Why This Matters
Winning this award isn’t just an accolade for us—it’s a statement about the future of renewable energy in heritage sites. Historic buildings are often seen as difficult to modernise, but Smithy Cottage shows that sustainability is achievable, even in properties where aesthetic preservation is crucial. By skilfully integrating renewable systems, we’ve demonstrated that renewables can be an essential part of the conversation about retrofitting the UK’s aging building stock.
We believe this project sets a new standard for how renewable energy systems can be incorporated into listed buildings without compromising their history or beauty. It also serves as a case study for other property owners and developers who face similar challenges with historical sites.
A Big Thank You
We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in making this project such a success, especially our skilled team of installers and engineers. This award wouldn’t have been possible without their dedication to excellence and innovation. We’re also grateful to the LABC for recognising the importance of combining modern energy efficiency with historical preservation.
At Yorkshire Energy Systems, we’re passionate about helping homeowners and businesses alike transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems. Whether you own a modern commercial space or a historic property, we have the expertise to deliver customised renewable energy solutions that suit your needs.
Here’s to many more successful projects, and to a future where sustainability is integrated into every type of property, old or new!
