CASE STUDY

This completely unique design, with its numerous new and innovative materials and technologies, could well have been a Building Control nightmare. However, our knowledge and understanding of energy efficiency and sustainable design meant that we worked with the architect, resulting in robust solutions being offered rather than hurdles. Probably the most noticeable feature of this dwelling is the Timbrel vault - a structural arch made out of clay tiles formed without the need for structural formwork. The performance standards adopted were "passivhaus" resulting in very high levels of insulation (U Values around 0.12W/m2), air-tightness of 0.72m3/m2 and treble glazed windows. New technologies adopted include photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) and phase-change internal lining boards. These technologies, combined with MVHR, a wood burning boiler and thermal stores result in an ultra low energy dwelling that generates more energy than is used.