Profile

Bhargav

Bhargav Macha

PhD Student
UCL
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Bhargav holds a master’s degree in building energy performance and a bachelor’s degree in architecture. He is adept in passive design strategies, building energy efficiency, HVAC systems modelling, daylighting design optimisation, and renewable energy systems. In his five years of professional journey, he has worked on diverse verticals, including heritage conservation, residential and institutional architecture, energy-efficiency policy formulation, and advisory roles for institutional campuses with net-zero energy, water, and waste targets. Bhargav is passionate about exploring the synergy between energy efficiency, technology development, and policy to create a sustainable and healthy built environment. He is currently pursuing his PhD at UCL and is a part of the ERBE CDT.
Empirical assessment of indoor air quality and overheating risks in Passivhaus-certified care settings in the UK

Bhargav’s PhD research empirically evaluates the application of Passivhaus standards in UK care settings, focusing on indoor air quality and overheating, particularly for the ageing population. Despite the known benefits of Passivhaus design for residential buildings, there is a lack of research on its impact in non-domestic buildings like care settings. This research aims to bridge this gap by assessing indoor air quality parameters, overheating risks, occupant comfort, and health outcomes in Passivhaus care settings. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative environmental monitoring, building performance simulations, and qualitative surveys and interviews, Bhargav’s work will develop evidence-based recommendations to enhance the well-being of residents in these settings. The findings will inform future sustainable building practices and policy-making for care settings, ensuring they are both energy-efficient and conducive to occupant health.