Progress House PBSA

Fully electric MEP design for a 544-bed student scheme, delivering EPC A performance, operational savings, and virtually zero reliance on fossil fuels.

Progress House is a major purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme comprising 544 beds across multiple blocks in Coventry. March Consultants Ltd was appointed to deliver full MEP design services with a focus on long-term sustainability, energy efficiency, and capital cost optimisation.

A fire-engineered natural smoke ventilation system was used to eliminate the need for a generator or UPS, reducing both capital outlay and maintenance costs. Domestic hot water is delivered via ultra-low GWP CO₂ heat pumps, supporting a fully electric strategy and achieving an EPC A rating. Space heating and cooling in commercial areas is provided by high-efficiency VRF systems, while meticulous coordination enabled a dual sprinkler network across residential and non-residential demises.

The result is a future-ready student living environment, designed to minimise carbon, reduce lifecycle cost, and simplify ongoing operations.