In a recent Retrofit Academy Forum – our exclusive members’ only, expert-led panels on the big retrofit issues, projects and opportunities – Dr Peter Rickaby chaired a session asking this fundamental question of ‘What do retrofit coordinators need to know about retrofit design?’, featuring four exceptional contributors.
The Retrofit Coordinator/Designer Discussion
Architect Robert Prewett drew upon his many years of experience in the field of one-off, deep retrofits to draw parallels with how retrofit is being delivered at scale. Bob is widely credited with coining the term Retrofit Coordinator following the Retrofit for the Future Programme in 2012.
Fellow Architect Loreana Padron considered how designers and coordinators can work together more effectively. Drawing on her experience at ECD Architects working alongside sister-company Keegans (Retrofit Academy Awards 2025 finalist for the ‘Retrofit Assessment & Coordination Services’ award), she described how Designers shape the technical solution whilst Coordinators ensure quality and compliance.
Phil Partridge described how design and coordination was managed within Value Optimised Retrofit. He described the importance of teamwork and communication between coordinator and designer. He also stressed the importance of understanding the building regulations in addition to PAS 2035. He felt that Coordinators need to be well-supported, know their limits and have a designer to consult when they need it.
Danielle Belton, MD of leading installer Saving Energy UK talked passionately about the need for deliverable design. She stressed the need to bring the installer and the client into the conversation early. This will help to identify areas that are not deliverable in the time and other constraints found on the ground. Only through this approach could a right first-time outcome be achieved with combined strong communication and teamwork.
Final Takeaways
The panel strongly agreed that good design and coordination was only possible if the initial assessment was suitably accurate and comprehensive. Danielle said, “the next visit after the assessment is often the installer, who often finds that the data provided was inaccurate”.
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FAQs
What is a Retrofit Coordinator?
A Retrofit Coordinator plays a crucial role in ensuring that energy efficiency improvements meet PAS 2035 standards. Acting as the project manager, they oversee everything from the initial assessment to final completion, ensuring compliance, managing risks, and coordinating between assessors, designers, and installers.
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What skills do Retrofit Coordinators need for successful project delivery?
To oversee retrofit projects effectively, Retrofit Coordinators should have:
- A deep understanding of PAS 2035 and UK building regulations
- Strong project management and risk assessment skills
- Technical knowledge of energy efficiency measures and building fabric
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
- Problem-solving skills to navigate unexpected challenges
What is a Retrofit Designer?
A Retrofit Designer is responsible for shaping the technical solutions behind energy-efficient retrofit projects. Working alongside the Retrofit Coordinator, they ensure that designs are practical, deliverable, and fully compliant with PAS 2035 and UK building regulations.
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What is the role of a Retrofit Coordinator in retrofit design?
A Retrofit Coordinator ensures that all retrofit measures are suitable, safe, and effective. They manage project risks, compliance, and quality control, making sure that each stage – from assessment to installation – meets PAS 2035 requirements. Working closely with Retrofit Designers, they help create sustainable, high-quality outcomes that deliver long-term benefits.
How do Retrofit Coordinators and Retrofit Designers work together?
A successful retrofit project relies on strong collaboration between the Retrofit Coordinator and Designer. While the Designer develops the technical plans, the Coordinator ensures that everything is feasible, meets compliance standards, and can be successfully delivered. This partnership is essential in achieving high-quality, effective retrofit solutions.
Why is teamwork important in retrofit projects?
Retrofit projects are complex, and without seamless teamwork, they can run into delays, cost overruns, or non-compliance with PAS 2035. Coordinators, Designers, and Installers need to communicate effectively to ensure that projects are practical, well-planned, and deliverable. When teams collaborate early, they can prevent issues before they impact the project.
What are the biggest challenges in retrofit design and coordination?
Some of the key challenges include:
- Data accuracy – If the initial assessment is flawed, the design will be too.
- Regulatory compliance – Meeting PAS 2035 and building regulations is non-negotiable.
- Project constraints – Budgets, timescales, and site conditions often create barriers.
- Installer input – If installers aren’t consulted early, practical issues may arise later.
Retrofit success depends on addressing these challenges upfront through strong communication, careful planning, and expert coordination.
What is PAS 2035?
PAS 2035 is the UK’s industry standard for domestic retrofit, ensuring a whole-house approach to energy efficiency improvements. It defines the key roles in retrofit projects – including Coordinators, Designers, Assessors, and Installers – and sets strict requirements for quality assurance, risk assessment, and compliance.
Want to understand PAS 2035 in more depth? Read our PAS 2035 Guide here.
How does PAS 2035 impact retrofit coordination?
PAS 2035 sets the framework for how retrofits must be carried out in the UK. Retrofit Coordinators are responsible for ensuring compliance, making sure every decision aligns with the standard’s risk-based approach. This means balancing cost, energy efficiency, and long-term building performance, all while maintaining a right-first-time approach.
