Rachel Hoolahan | BSc (Hons) Architecture, Master of Architecture

Rachel Hoolahan | BSc (Hons) Architecture, Master of Architecture

Associate Director architectural practice Orms

Rachel Hoolahan is Associate Director at Orms, a leading London architectural practice specialising in sustainable building adaptation. Her pioneering work in materials passports has positioned her at the forefront of retrofit innovation, leading a cross-industry working group of over 100 professionals developing scalable reuse methodologies.

With recent research co-authored with Lancaster University, Rachel is developing practical frameworks for material reuse that directly address embodied carbon challenges. Orms’ landmark project at 75 London Wall demonstrates their approach to deep building refurbishment, showcasing ambitious targets for sustainable transformation.

An active member of research groups such as the UKGBC, NLA Net Zero Expert Panel and LETI, Rachel bridges academic research with practical design solutions. Her expertise spans whole life carbon assessments, circular economy strategies, and the commercial viability of retrofit – making her a leading voice in reimagining our built environment's sustainable future.

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