Sustainable by Nature
JRA works creatively to provide imaginative solutions that balance and enhance the fragile ecosystem of which we are a part. We nurture our unparalleled expertise in retrofit, caring deeply about building reuse before it was common practice, and maintain the same dedication to circularity, applying it to new build and reinforcing our reputation for designing and delivering buildings rooted in sustainability. JRA is proud to do things differently.

Contextual Sustainability
We prioritise the urban fabric of our cities, contributing to their context by designing thoughtful additions that enhance local character and people’s sense of place. We also work with important listed and heritage buildings, preserving the best of the past and renewing their cultural value. See some of our culturally significant buildings in numbers below for The Northcliffe, Bermondsey Yards, 33 King William Street, Bloom, Clerkenwell, Bureau, 90 Fetter Lane and Aldwych Quarter.
Circular & Low Carbon
We optimise sustainability through creative and technical solutions, including championing circular design principles, whole life carbon, life cycles and appropriate material specification. See how we elevated Bermondsey Yards in the animation below.
Wellbeing
We are committed to health and wellbeing principles in our designs, continually exploring opportunities in biophilia and new technologies that have a proven positive impact on users’ wellbeing. Find out about our wellbeing interventions at x+why, 100 Embankment, 33 King William Street, Bracken House and The Northcliffe.
Efficiency & Performance
We unlock the value in buildings, whether retrofit or new build, with efficient designs that are resilient and stand the test of time. Learn how we boosted performance at Great Arthur House.
Social Value
We promote social value through our designs by drawing on a deep understanding of the cultural history of cities and extensive stakeholder engagement. See how we are doing this at Bermondsey Yards. We also provide social value through events that give voice to our local community. See how we worked with communities and created meaningful social value at the London Festival of Architecture.
Sustainability Team




Materials Research Lab
JRA’s Material Research Lab (MRL) conducts original research into pioneering sustainable materials and their applications in architectural design. The MRL team is devoted to sharing their knowledge studio-wide through monthly internal articles, ensuring awareness of the latest best practice and informing specification choices. The MRL also engages with the public through materiality displays in the JRA studio lobby. During the London Festival of Architecture, the MRL collaborated with a number of innovative creators to host their largest exhibition to date.


Navigating Certifications
We have extensive experience in navigating certification standards, including BREEAM, the WELL Building Standard, Passivhaus/Enerphit, NABERS, LEED, and SKA. We are committed to delivering optimal outcomes, and always endeavour to improve on delivery against benchmarks such as the UKNZCBS.


Industry Contribution
UKNZCBS contributors
London Build Expo: The Building Safety Act
Overbury Low Carbon Conversations Podcast
Sustainable Design Magazine: 100 Embankment
Orgatec Cologne: The Human Centric Workplace
LFA 2024: giving voice to local communities & expert collaborators
Retrofit thought piece
Sustainable Design Magazine: Embedded Carbon in Office Fitouts
London 2050
FIS CAT A impact project
Corporate Responsibility
Carbon Reduction Plan
ESG policy
Student Work Experience


