Passivhaus, Suffolk

Our second Paragraph 80 proposal was for a new sustainable house located in a woodland clearing. It quickly became apparent that due to tree roots, their protection and the need to lift the property up to improve long views and light levels, the house would have a simple plan form and be located on screw pile foundations. After a considerable amount of office based research and development into the structural use of cork, we proposed a sustainable house designed in accordance with Passivhaus principles (including PHPP energy modelling), that would have a light touch on it’s sensitive location.

Modular construction means a fast site build, and a ‘no-dig’ drive will be used for all small site vehicles, ensuring the protection of any shallow tree roots.

Internally a natural palette of materials is proposed, free of VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). The bedrooms and reading nooks will have cork flooring which will distinguish them from the marmoleum floor in the corridor and living areas.

The walls will be of naturally glazed clay plaster and the ceiling will be woodfibre board, bound with lime rather than cement, providing acoustic dampening while continuing the natural woodland theme throughout the build.