Property description

The project concerns retrofitting a post war bungalow to improve its energy efficiency, sustainability, and comfort. Measures included adding insulation, replacing windows, improving ventilation and installing renewable energy systems like solar panels. A successful retrofit considers a “whole house” approach to ensure changes are implemented in a logical order for optimal results.

The owners were keen to pursue an innovative design that would transform the property at relatively low cost. Proposals included raising the roof and finishing it with a cladding material with solar technology, Siberian Larch cladding, external wall insulating render and an extensive use of high-performance glazing.

Unlike traditional photovoltaic panels that are clamped to a roof, the owners settled for a pioneering flexible, peel, and stick photovoltaic solar cell that when installed on a metal roof are virtually unseen.

The result gave the property a more contemporary domestic look, whilst reinforcing individuality and character. Materials used were of a high quality to help raise the standard set for future proposals in the area. The overall effect is subtle, yet contemporary incorporating environmental sensitivity and energy efficiency.

Principle of development

The National Planning Policy Framework guidance in section 7, paragraph 60 states: Planning policies and decisions should not attempt to impose architectural styles or particular tastes, and they should not stifle innovation, originality or initiative through unsubstantiated requirements to confirm to certain development forms or styles. It is however, appropriate to seek to promote or reinforce local distinctiveness. And furthermore, paragraph 63 states: In determining applications, great weight should be given to outstanding or innovative designs which help raise the standard of design more generally in an area.

Discoveries that caused the initial design to be revised

A natural slate roof was originally proposed with integrated solar tiles but the cost was nearly double that of traditional solar panels and lacked the sleek aesthetic the owners were after. A covered balcony area was omitted from the design to maximise the internal floor area of the master bedroom. External solar shading to reduce solar gain and lower energy costs for cooling were exchanged for air conditioning units. The existing first floor joists were found to be rotten and subsequently replaced with open lattice joists for structural performance and design flexibility.