project inspiration

Finding ways to reduce carbon, energy consumption and create a sustainable, resourceful home are huge priorities for many self builders. Sander Tel uncovers a collection of the UK’s lowest energy homes with big ideas at the forefront of their architecture

TIMBER IN NOVATION

Designed by Kirsty Maguire Architects, this sensitive home was built to Passivhaus principles and with low-carbon living in mind. Virtually no concrete was used during the house’s construction and the build sits on steel screw piles, preventing any damage to tree roots. The timber frame structure is heated via an air source heat pump and insulated with a sustainable blend of recycled paper and timber insulation boards. Outside, the barn -like exterior has been finished with Russwood’s (www.russwood.co.uk) high-performance Scotlarch cladding, specified in two different widths to create visual interest. This is carried inside with finishes such as timber and clay plaster, connecting the house with its woodland setting. (www.kirstymaguire.com)

DAVID BARBOUR

RICHARD CHIVERS

ANGULAR MASTE RPIECE

These homeowners approached Adam Knibb Architects to help them create an eco-friendly, low-carbon forever home on a green belt site in Surrey. The project involved knocking down an existing home and reusing its materials as hardcore to level the plot. Sustainable, recycled products were specified elsewhere, too, such as the locally-sourced knapped flint exterior which ensures the new build calls back to its environment. An exposed cross-laminated timber butterfly roof structure creates a truly breathtaking feature inside the home, with large swathes of glazing either side allowing daylight to flood the open-plan living zone. The charming self build also makes use of renewable technologies to ensure low-impact living – this includes a ground source heat pump, solar panels and a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system. (www.adamknibbarchitects.com)