Durham School is a newly established primary school located along Redhill Road in Nairobi and is set to become the first school in Kenya to achieve EDGE certification. The development is being executed in phases, with Phase One—comprising six classroom blocks and an assembly hall—commencing construction in January 2025. UGC was engaged from the early design stage to support the design team in aligning the project with EDGE Advanced requirements. Through detailed building simulation and technical advisory, UGC helped optimise the school’s performance across energy, water, and materials. The project achieved EDGE Advanced Preliminary Certification in 2025 and is targeting final certification following completion in September 2025. In addition, the school intends to pursue EDGE Net Zero Carbon certification one year post-occupancy, demonstrating sectoral leadership in climate-conscious education infrastructure.
Project Sustainability Features
- 43% energy savings, including reduced glazing ratios, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting
- 36% water savings, through low-flow fixtures and efficient water systems
- 42% reduction in embodied carbon in materials, with material-efficient structural and envelope components
- Wastewater recycling and provision for on-site renewable energy
- Smart metering to support building performance monitoring
- Intended pursuit of EDGE Net Zero Carbon certification post one year of occupancy
- Sets a precedent for sustainable school development in Kenya
UGC Services Provided:
- Energy, water, and material performance modelling
- Sustainability strategy development
- Future planning for Net Zero Carbon certification
Project Info
Location
- Redhill Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Square Meters
- 8,109
Completion Date
- EDGE Advanced Preliminary Certification – 2025
- Final Certification expected September 2025
Certification
- EDGE
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