Jefferson Sheard Architects were engaged by Barnsley College to assist in developing proposals for a unique and exemplar facility, the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Construction and Renewable Energy Technologies. The centre is a ‘flagship’ within the low carbon sector achieving a BREEAM rating of excellent and by utilising existing and emerging green technologies and construction techniques. The centre aims to act as a catalyst for knowledge transfer and seeks through its own construction and operation, to demonstrate techniques and technologies that promote awareness of sustainable principles. The design incorporates the following elements which have been revealed throughout the building: Roof mounted photovoltaic cells; Roof mounted solar thermal hot water panels; Wind catchers providing natural ventilation; Air to air heat recovery systems; Air source heat pump systems Evaporative cooling systems; On site wind turbines Rain water recycling system; Sustainable drainage systems including soakaways and swales; Green roof; Biomass heating system; High thermal performance blockwork; High performance timber and aluminium composite glazing and curtain walling systems; Low embodied energy materials such as Straw bale walling systems, unfired clay bricks, recycled aluminium roofing, and timber rainscreen cladding. The project is one that remains close to our hearts at Jefferson Sheard Architects as sustainable design is one of the largest challenges the construction industry faces at present.