Tackling Part O Compliance in London

Author name

Why is Building Regulations Part O compliance tougher to achieve in London?

This is because the capital is classed as a high-risk location for overheating, so compliance demands more rigorous design solutions. For architects, that can feel restrictive — but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be.


At Southmore Court - an aged living scheme in Bromley, we helped architects Designscape to achieve compliance with Part O.


We carried out energy modelling and carbon assessments to compare decentralised, renewable and low-carbon energy options to achieve compliance for the London Borough of Bromley.


The outcome – a 58% reduction in total carbon emissions compared to Building Regulations Part L and fully aligned with the London Plan.


Part O compliance is particularly demanding in London due to the higher risk of overheating. We recommended dynamic solar shading to limit solar gain and mitigate overheating.


Designscape adopted this passive solution and incorporated projecting fins in a box-style configuration into the design for the windows on the upper floors.

Their solution was to add projecting fins in a box-style configuration to the windows on the upper floors. This will reduce solar gain in all angles of sun, whilst maintaining design integrity.


The result? Comfortable, future-proofed accommodation for the care home residents that meets the more stringent requirements of the London Plan.


Part O isn’t about limiting design. With the right team, collaboration and a practical approach, it is an opportunity to deliver buildings that perform better for occupants all year round.


The result is a building which meets the rigorous standards of the London Plan and will enhance occupant comfort and wellbeing.


Image courtesy of Designscape

SHARE THIS POST WITH YOUR NETWORK

by Doug Johnson 9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a really challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping to ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
Building performance specialist Mesh looks at the Future Homes Standard
6 November 2025
Building performance specialist Mesh looks at the Future Homes Standard - the issues and implications on housing design
5 November 2025
Members of the Mesh team joined a local charity to help with a tree planting project on the Hampton Estate. This was organised by the Surrey Hills Society, an independent charity who do some great work to encourage people to spend time in the beautiful Surrey landscape. According to Mesh Director Doug Johnson: "We are always looking for volunteering ideas and this charity's work fits so well with our sustainability values. This was our second volunteering day this year. It is very much part of our ethos and culture to make a difference to our environment. These events are also a fantastic opportunity to bring our team together. Thank you to the Surrey Hills Society for a really good day in the autumn sunshine. It’s just so good for the soul!" Five members of the Mesh team joined the day – travelling from Worthing, Bristol and as far as Exeter to help out.
1 October 2025
The Mesh Way – Our values in action
23 September 2025
Helping architects to achieve Part O compliance
11 September 2025
The pioneering Hope Street project in Southampton has won an RIBA National Award in recognition of its outstanding design.
8 September 2025
Assessing Low Energy and Renewable Technologies for Cost Efficiency and Carbon Reduction
13 August 2025
New Research Highlights Care Home Residents at Risk in High Heat Zones
5 July 2025
Local Planning Authorities Strengthen their Stance on Carbon Reduction in the Drive Towards Netzero

Subsribe to memo from mesh