Whitwell House

Project Overview

Whitwell House was the construction team’s first Passivhaus project (it is currently aiming for certification). The building is very airtight and highly insulated with several layers of material, including recycled newspaper within the timber frame, so requiring very little energy for heating.

Large windows in the southwest elevation provide heat from solar gain which is controlled by sensor operated blinds to prevent overheating.

Renewable energy is generated though a photovoltaic array and a solar thermal panel. Rainwater is collected in a 1,500 litre tank to provide water for garden irrigation and car washing.

Successful integration into the village was a major consideration of the design which, in form and external treatment, follows the vernacular of farm buildings in the area and achieves an appropriate scale using a mix of traditional and modern materials.