Case study:
Drake House, Rickmansworth, UK
Project Overview (KPI’s)
Reduced risk
Reduced risk of budget overspend through early-stage comparison and accurate option appraisal
Improved outcomes
Improved sustainability outcomes by identifying the most efficient system options early
Clear stage 2 route
Faster programme delivery due to a clear Stage 2 route and fewer late-stage changes
Increased confidence
Increased stakeholder confidence because decisions were supported by robust engineering evidence
Our Contribution
We covered all core building services, MEP, and vertical transportation, with a focus on performance optimisation and future-proofing:
Hot Water
Explored HIUs, apartment heat pumps, and ambient loop systems comparing CAPEX cost and area requirments.
Fire Safety
Reviewed both residential and commerical sprinkler requirments for the building including plant space allowances.
Heating & Cooling
Modelled multiple system configurations (high-temp heat pumps, ambient loops, decentralised ventilation) to achieve the best balance of efficiency, performance, and space.
Vertical Transport
Assessed lift options to meet the London Plan and firefighting/evacuation standards.
Electrical
Reviewed power demand, EV charging, PV integration, and load management to optimise infrastructure.
Public Health
Developed riser, pump, storage, and metering strategies within tight footprints.
Sustainability
Identified carbon reduction opportunities including low-GWP refrigerants, PV maximisation, and decentralised low-carbon systems.
How we achieved this
Value Delivered
By combining a comparative options study with a clear Stage 2 strategy, we were able to provide the project team with:
- Side-by-side analysis of cost, spatial impact, sustainability performance, and operational implications.
- Technical clarity on plant space requirements, utility strategies, and system arrangements.
- A structured roadmap that balances commercial objectives with regulatory compliance, buildability, and long-term performance.
Let’s Build Smarter, Together
Neuron is actively seeking partners, pilot users, and collaborators across the UK housing ecosystem. Whether you’re a developer, Architect, QS, civil engineer, local authority, planner, or design consultant, we’d love to hear from you. Our goal is to support early-stage decision-making, help unlock constrained sites, and build a more transparent, data-driven pathway to housing delivery. Get in touch to book a demo, or explore how Neuron could support your projects.