Port Hamilton is a 4,000m² office building designed in collaboration with cre8architecture and RHWL/Aedas.
Spanning ground plus four upper floors, the building combines modern design with exceptional environmental performance.
Located in central Edinburgh, the building offers occupants a premium workplace experience. Its passive energy strategy, natural ventilation, and carefully considered environment make it both comfortable and sustainable.
The project achieved an Excellent BREEAM rating, reflecting its efficiency, low carbon footprint, and high-quality indoor environment.
Today, Mac Fordham Engineers are based at Port Hamilton. Their office interiors were designed by Simon Laird, integrating modern aesthetics with functional workplace design.
Design Concept
The design focuses on passive energy responsiveness. Large openable windows enable natural cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling and heating. Curved black aluminium cladding and Accoya louvres provide shading and control solar gain.
The building balances form and function. Its architectural language is contemporary, yet the materials are robust, durable, and low-maintenance. By integrating energy performance with aesthetics, the design supports both user comfort and operational efficiency.
Structure & Environmental Features
Port Hamilton employs natural ventilation, passive cooling, and carefully oriented façades. Accoya timber louvres allow airflow while protecting from direct sunlight. The openable windows give occupants control over their environment, enhancing wellbeing.
The building’s passive energy systems reduce running costs. By leveraging natural airflow and daylight, Port Hamilton remains highly energy efficient throughout the year.
The curved aluminium cladding gives the façade a distinctive presence. At the same time, it works with environmental systems to ensure performance is not compromised by aesthetics.
Occupant Experience
Users enjoy a bright, airy, and comfortable interior. Cross-ventilation and operable windows provide fresh air throughout the building. The workspace responds to user needs while maintaining low energy consumption.
The combination of natural ventilation, sunlight control, and visual openness supports productivity and wellbeing. Occupants report a strong sense of connection to the external environment and the city beyond.
Outcome
Port Hamilton demonstrates that passive energy strategies can deliver both sustainability and user comfort. Its BREEAM Excellent rating reflects careful integration of environmental systems, materials, and design.
The building is cost-efficient to run, visually striking, and adaptable for modern office use. Hosting Mac Fordham Engineers with interiors by Simon Laird further demonstrates how high-performance buildings can provide inspiring and functional workplaces.
UK Green Building Council – sustainable office guidance.
Passivhaus Trust – passive energy building reference.
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