Image: Tim Soar
In 2016, a 1960s Brighton build was given a full eco refurbishment by designer and architect, Oliver Heath. The project saw the house’s carbon footprint reduced by 77 per cent – from 10.9 tonnes per year, down to only 2.5 tonnes. The finished home is a stunning show of interior design and sustainability, and one that is sure to make a mark on anyone who enters.
To achieve such great eco-credentials, Oliver stripped the house back to its bare bones. He provided the house with full insulation, and three self-heating systems, including a condensing boiler that feeds the under floor heating, solar water heating panels, and a wood burning stove. The heat-recovery system supplies a continual source of clean ventilation – whilst recycling stale air to preheat fresh oxygen entering the property. To make sure that no energy escapes, the house was sealed to make it airtight. Water consumption has also been reduced with the addition of low flow showers and toilets, a water butt, a clever foot-pedal operated tap, and a diverter valve for bath water. As well as the fitting of low-energy appliances throughout, natural light has been maximised to lessen the need for artificial lighting.