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This five-bedroom certified Passivhaus property was designed by Gresford Architects. The modern scheme aims to provide a sympathetic response to its built-up surroundings while also sitting comfortably alongside more traditional neighbouring properties.

A bungalow was demolished to make way for the new abode, which has been crafted for optimal performance by adopting a fabric first approach. A super-insulated timber frame by MBC Timber Frame (mbctimberframe.co. uk) was assembled off-site and supplied with an airtight membrane. Recycled paper insulation in the walls and English chestnut wooden external cladding was chosen to reduce the dwelling’s carbon footprint, along with keeping the use of concrete and steel to less than 10% of the total volume of the building.

Owing to the energy efficiency credentials of the house, it costs virtually nothing to run. A specialist Passivhaus certified woodburner is used on occasion during the winter, meaning the homeowners do not need to turn on the heating except in extremely cold weather. The inclusion of a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system ensures a constant stream of fresh air inside.

For more information call 020 7249 1855 or log on to gresfordarchitects.co.uk