Exceptional Passivhaus with wellbeing at its heart

A marriage of sustainable principles and eco-tourism set in a diverse and rich regenerative landscape

Our client’s brief for this project was framed around key aspirations to transform the current site into a biodiverse haven for wildlife. In order to enable this as an ongoing concern,  a small scale sustainable tourism offering with multi-generational owner’s accommodation was to be established.

The architectural design of this project has been guided by a strong commitment to create a ‘sanctuary’ for residents, visitors, and those who experience the development. This vision has been shaped in various ways, and at its core, the scheme is underpinned by four key principles: Biophilia, Biodiversity, the Five Ways to Wellbeing, and Passivhaus standards. These foundational principles drive the design and landscaping approach, aiming to enhance health and wellbeing across the site. They also ensure that the scheme achieves a high standard of architectural quality, benefiting both direct users and the surrounding community.

 

 

Paragraph 80 modern house

Ensuring that the main house is in keeping with the ecological aspirations of the site has meant a highly sustainable approach must be adopted. Passivhaus accreditation is the mechanism to ensure high quality building standards are met. Through the use of sustainable and hard wearing local materials the design looks to be exceptional whilst enhancing the landscape.

As the site sits outside of the local development boundary there were also additional complications in terms of planning.

The proposal for the most part is single storey in design, with the exception of the bedroom spaces which sit below the main living area. The design and topography of the site means that this floor is set into the ground, partially concealing this additional level. The orientation is such that the living accommodation benefits from a south-southwest aspect that will enjoy natural heating and large amounts of day lighting. To restrict excessive solar gain in summer months a large overhanging roof is implemented. This also acts as a strong horizontal element tying the building together into one cohesive piece of architecture.

 

Balcony View RevB Framed View Early Riser Rev B
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