Stunning eco build

Location: Aberdeenshire Construction method: Structural insulated panels House size: 200m2 Build cost: £260,000 Package route: Wind & watertight kit with full construction package Supplier: Caber House

Sarah and John Stupart have recently completed their new home, The Barn, constructed using SIPS (structural insulated panels). When they found this plot on the edge of the Aberdeenshire countryside, the couple were quick to identify their key project goals. “We wanted a low-maintenance, low-energy house with a sleek modern look that would be easy to live in,” says Sarah.

The Stuparts chose Caber House to deliver their new home, opting for the Type B model. The pair were attracted to the simplicity of the firm’s package route: select your design, alter it to suit your needs, and Caber House takes care of the rest – including planning, building warrants and supply and erection of the kit. The house types are very flexible, too. The pair personalised the layout with a ground floor master suite, utility and pantry, and a sunroom to capture views. Efficiency is planned into the internal layouts, with minimal circulation zones to maximise living space and value for money.

The Caber House range was developed with low-energy living in mind, using highly-insulated SIPS in order to achieve Passivhaus standards. “Once the Stuparts had selected their preferred design, we fed site specific data into our energy model,” says Colin Potter, the architect behind the

Caber House designs. “This allowed us to optimise performance and avoid overheating, which was vital given the extensive south-facing glazing.”

The couple are very enthusiastic about their self build experience. “The project went pretty well to plan. Naturally there were a few overspends where we changed the specification of the finishes, but that’s normal,” explains Sarah. “We love the house. It flows really well and it’s a great space for entertaining – light and bright, but still warm and cosy. It definitely wows people who visit.”

Caber House

01369 701988 or www.caberhouse.co.uk