The Challenge

To create a modern, bespoke, high specification house for a private customer in County Durham. Their brief was to design and build an energy efficient house which would become their home. The client’s aspirations were to incorporate renewable energy technologies ensuring low running costs.

Our solution

Our team worked closely with the client’s architect, Blake Hopkinson Architecture, to build an ICF (Insulated Concrete Formwork) house complete with basement. The ICF walls and SIPs roof provided a highly insulated building fabric ensuring that the first level of the CO2 emissions reduction hierarchy was achieved by reducing the building’s energy demand. We installed a passive solar design to the glazed elevation creating benefit from solar gain, shading and thermal mass. The building was then fitted out with high performing renewable and sustainable technologies including an air source heating system and energy efficient lighting.

Scope of work

A full turnkey development including:

• Demolition of existing vinery
• Excavation and ICF Basement construction
• External ICF walls
• Glazing and solar shading
• Wall cladding, SIPs roof cassettes and zinc roof
• Design and installation of mechanical and electrical equipment
• Internal fit out and specialist joinery
• Tiling and decoration
• Landscaping

The Results

A stunning, modern house, built in the grounds of the clients’ existing home. It sits within the plot’s walled gardens and enjoys stunning views over the Durham countryside.

The property was completed in January 2022 and was occupied soon after. It boasts an A+ energy rating and some warm and cozy new residents.