Business Details
22 Years
experience
Sustainable MEP Engineering Solutions
Established in 2004, SDS Engineering Consultants (SDS) has grown from a small consultancy into a multi-disciplinary team of over 90 professionals dedicated to sustainable engineering excellence. Our expertise in mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) design is rooted in a commitment to creating buildings and systems that prioritise human well-being, environmental stewardship, and technical precision. With a focus on compliance, sustainability, and long-term performance, we act as trusted advisors, delivering practical, energy-efficient solutions tailored to client needs. Our ISO 9001 accreditation and Net Carbon Neutral status reflect our dedication to quality and environmental responsibility.Recognised with the Queen's Award for Sustainable Development, we combine decades of hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology to de-risk projects and ensure buildable, future-ready outcomes. Our collaborative approach spans all RIBA stages, supported by in-house expertise in UK Building Regulations, Passivhaus standards, and BREEAM assessments. By investing in our team's growth and fostering innovation, we empower clients to achieve their goals while contributing positively to communities and the planet.
Services
MEP Consultancy
Sustainability Design
BREEAM Assessments
Passivhaus Standards
BIM Coordination
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in sustainable MEP engineering.
- Our ISO 9001 accreditation ensures quality-driven project delivery.
- We pioneered Net Carbon Neutral practices since 2019.
- Award-winning approach to social value and community impact.
- Specialists in BREEAM, Passivhaus, and UK Building Regulations compliance.
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
- Net Carbon Neutral
- Queen's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development
Services
MEP Consultancy
Our MEP consultancy delivers tailored mechanical, electrical, and public health systems that balance efficiency, compliance, and sustainability. We specialise in low-carbon solutions for new builds and retrofits, ensuring projects meet regulatory standards while minimising environmental impact. With expertise across all RIBA stages, we provide coordinated designs that enhance building performance and occupant comfort.
Sustainability Design
We integrate net-zero carbon strategies into every project, offering BREEAM, Passivhaus, and AECB Carbon Lite compliance services. Our team conducts thermal modelling, SAP/SBEM assessments, and renewable energy integration to future-proof buildings. As a Net Carbon Neutral business, we prioritise environmental stewardship without compromising technical excellence or client budgets.
BIM Coordination
Using Revit and ISO 19650 workflows, we provide BIM Level 2-compliant coordination for seamless project integration. Our clash detection, federated model coordination, and 3D visualisation services reduce risks and improve collaboration. We support clients from concept to completion with asset tagging, COBie data, and model-sharing strategies tailored to complex regeneration and new-build schemes.
Passivhaus Standards
Our accredited Passivhaus consultants deliver ultra-low energy buildings through precision thermal bridging analysis, airtightness strategies, and MVHR system design. We ensure compliance with Part L and Part O regulations while optimising occupant comfort. By combining technical expertise with sustainability goals, we help clients achieve certified Passivhaus performance across residential and commercial projects.
Social Value Framework
Through our Together360 programme, we embed social value into projects via community engagement, education initiatives, and environmental stewardship. From STEM workshops to habitat restoration, we create lasting benefits for local populations. Recognised with national awards, our framework aligns client objectives with societal needs, ensuring projects deliver measurable positive impact beyond construction.
People
Shaun Hoppins
Managing Director
Leading SDS since its founding, Shaun drives strategic growth while maintaining technical excellence. His vision for human-centred engineering has shaped the firm's sustainability focus and award-winning culture. With deep industry experience, he ensures client projects balance innovation with practicality.
Ilona Ziaja
People Director
Ilona champions employee wellbeing and development, fostering a culture of creativity and care. Her initiatives support team growth and retention, aligning organisational success with individual aspirations. She plays a key role in embedding SDS's values across all operations.
Sarah Carter
Operations Director
Sarah oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient project delivery and compliance. Her leadership in quality management systems reinforces SDS's ISO 9001 standards and commitment to continuous improvement across all engineering services.
James Laughlin
Regional Director for Exeter
James leads the Exeter office, combining technical expertise with client-focused solutions. His regional leadership ensures localised service delivery while maintaining alignment with SDS's national sustainability and engineering excellence goals.
Karen Field
Business Services Director
Karen manages financial and administrative operations, ensuring organisational stability and growth. Her strategic oversight supports SDS's expansion and investment in technology, people, and sustainable practices.
Questions
What sectors does Service Design Solution specialise in?
We work across defence, healthcare, rail, residential, education, and water sectors, delivering MEP and sustainability solutions tailored to each industry's unique requirements.
How does SDS incorporate sustainability into projects?
We integrate net-zero carbon strategies, BREEAM and Passivhaus standards, and renewable energy systems. Our Net Carbon Neutral status ensures all projects prioritise environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
What accreditations does SDS hold?
We are ISO 9001 QSA accredited, Net Carbon Neutral certified, and recipients of the Queen's Award for Sustainable Development, reflecting our commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
Can SDS support complex regeneration projects?
Yes, our team has extensive experience in retrofit and regeneration schemes, combining technical expertise with BIM coordination to deliver buildable, sustainable solutions for challenging sites.
How does SDS contribute to social value?
Through our Together360 framework, we drive community initiatives like STEM workshops, habitat restoration, and wellbeing programmes, ensuring projects create lasting societal benefits.
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