A foundation for the future: reflecting on the past through the pioneering sustainable retail design, Tesco Tramore, Co. Waterford, as we mark Earth Day 2025 with the theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet’.
“Integrity drives every project. Our designs aim to tell a story, why a building exists and how its inclusive spaces can be used and enjoyed.” This ethos, central to JDA Architects, resonates deeply when we reflect on a truly important project: the Tesco retail store Tramore, Co. Waterford. As highlighted in the original appointment by Tesco, this initiative wasn’t solely about creating another retail space; it marked a transformative moment for retail design in Ireland with the sustainability design used at that point. It set a global benchmark, becoming the first supermarket in the world to achieve Passive House accreditation, and remains a significant example of eco-friendly architecture and innovation within the retail sector. “Passive House is the world ‘s leading standard in energy efficient construction. The Passive House Standard stands for quality, comfort and energy efficiency. Passive Houses require very little energy to achieve a comfortable temperature year-round, making conventional heating and air conditioning systems obsolete.” *
Looking back, the core principles of the brief were clear: to deliver best practice in energy efficiency and environmental design. This commitment, especially in response to early scepticism in relation to green initiatives, led us to propose the rigorous Passive House methodology, underpinned by independent certification. The subsequent verification by the Passive House Institute in Germany and the recognition through the RIAI annual design awards in 2009 stand as testaments to the project’s profound big impact and our dedication to evidence-based design.
The Tesco Tramore project thoughtfully addressed the three primary energy consumers in retail buildings: heating, lighting, and cooling. The integration of a Tri-generation Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system, a first in the Irish retail sector, was a key innovation. Powered by natural gas, this system not only generated electricity but also cleverly utilised excess heat for hot water and chilled water production via an absorption chiller. This integrated energy strategy ensured the store achieved remarkable self-sufficiency in heating and hot water.
Our architectural approach prioritised creating a highly insulated and airtight building envelope, utilising structural timber wall panels. Designed to act like a thermal blanket, this envelope was crucial in maintaining a comfortable indoor climate and significantly reducing energy loss. Natural light was also strategically maximised, lessening the reliance on artificial lighting.
Structurally, the store featured a Glulam timber frame in front-of-house areas, seamlessly combining sustainability with aesthetic quality. The meticulous detailing of the airtightness layer, alongside minimal service penetrations, were vital in achieving the stringent Passive House standards.
The results speak for themselves: the Tramore store went on to use 45% less energy than comparable conventional stores. Furthermore, it pioneered the use of solar panels for electricity generation in Irish retail, further solidifying our commitment to architecture for sustainable development.
This project ignited a lasting personal passion for sustainable design in our then-project architect, Susanne Theunemer, whose dedication to her work was commended. Following its completion, she joined the Passivhaus Institut in Germany, continuing to contribute to sustainable architecture today.
At JDA Architects, we remain incredibly proud of the many innovations developed on this project.
Explore our portfolio of innovative projects, from retail and mixed-use developments to conservation, showcasing our expertise and commitment to design excellence here.
Contact us today to learn how we can help bring your next project to life on +353 1271 1300 or at info@jdaarchitects.ie.