Inspiration

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Scott Batty Architect updated this tired 1970s building – the architect’s own house – to create a modern, ecofriendly family home. After living in the unrenovated property for two years, Scott and his family were able to pinpoint the problem areas and identify how the internal spaces could be reconfigured to better suit their needs.

The overall idea was to upgrade the existing house with a focus on improving the building fabric. Using an ‘overcoat’ strategy, Scott added external insulation to the upper level, which is covered with attractive timber cladding. The ground floor retains the original brickwork with extra insulation injected into the cavity to create a more thermally efficient envelope. At the front of the house, new windows have been positioned to maximise solar gain, and the existing rear extension has been updated with contemporary floor-to-ceiling glazing.

This approach is estimated to have saved 50% of space heating energy use in the home.

Internally, the open-plan layout incorporates double sliding doors between the kitchen and living spaces, creating a flexible area where the family can open up and close off different zones. This also helps the flow of natural light. The interior decor uses neutral colours throughout and, in keeping with the ambition for a green home, the kitchen refurbishment retains the original units, with the work completed by Scott himself.