Creating an exemplar in sustainability

Designing our new home provided us with a unique opportunity to test out the cutting-edge philosophies which form the backbone of good environmental design.

Adopting a Fabric First approach, the whole building was thermally insulated to achieve extremely high U-values and maximise the potential of the geothermal heating and cooling system. The building is orientated to make extensive use of natural light and the airy interior is naturally ventilated. Most of the double glazing is north facing to minimise solar heat gain, and the glazing on the southern facade has an additional solar control finish. External brise-soleils in effective locations provide additional protection from glare and heat gain.

We use a rainwater recovery system for toilet flushing to reduce freshwater consumption. During extremely dry weather, a mains feed replenishes the tank.