Low carbon homes and integrating technology into designs
Supporting homeowners to make meaningful, long term energy improvements
With energy costs and the government announcement this week on the Warm Homes Plan, it’s clear that reducing the energy consumption of our homes and moving to cleaner energy has never been more important (Families to save in biggest home upgrade plan in British history - GOV.UK). The new plan provides potential grants or loans to support homeowners looking to upgrade their homes through the addition of solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps and insulation.
We are looking forward to the Warm Homes Plan enabling more people to incorporate energy saving measures into their homes. While technologies like heat pumps, solar panels and batteries play a vital role and funding for this will help it become a more viable option, they work best when they are designed into the home as part of a holistic approach.
Northern Common (front) - A complete home retrofit and extension and including solar panels integrated into the roof structure to both the front and rear roof slopes, working around roof space dormer windows.
A well-designed home stays warm in winter, cool in summer, has fresh air, and is affordable to run. This comes from getting the basics right first: insulation, airtightness, ventilation, layout and orientation. When the building fabric performs well, technology doesn’t have to work as hard and the home is more comfortable and cost effective as a result.
When it’s considered early, heating systems can be properly sized, controls can be simple and intuitive, and renewable technologies such as solar panels and batteries can be integrated seamlessly. The result is a home that quietly looks after itself and its inhabitants.
Most importantly, this approach creates homes that last. Buildings should stand for generations, while technology will continue to evolve. Designing an overall strategy from the outset ensures your home can adapt over time protects both comfort and long-term value.
The Lodge - A fully electric low energy new home with solar panels integrated into the standing seam metal roof sheets. Internally an Air Source Heat Pump and Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation system provide heat and fresh air throughout the year and roof overhangs provide shading to avoid summer overheating.
Client Checklist: Designing a Comfortable, Future-Ready Home
When starting a new build or major renovation, ask your design team:
How is the design helping to reduce heat loss and overheating?
Can the building fabric be improved?
How will smart controls work day-to-day for occupants?
Can systems adapt as my lifestyle or family needs change?
Will the home still perform well if technology changes over time?
Northern Common (Rear) - A complete home retrofit and extension and including solar panels integrated into the roof structure to both the front and rear roof slopes, working around roof space dormer windows.
Do get in touch if you are considering making your existing home work better for you, or building a new home that gives you a comfortable, efficient place to live.
Get in touch to discuss your options on how we can help you get permission