Donkey Lane Self Build Passive House
A Self Build Passive House Designed to Minimise Reliance on the Grid in a Countryside Setting
Located in the countryside outside the historic village of of Bere Regis, near Wareham, this sustainable home has been designed to Passivhaus standards. The house is intended to operate as close to ‘off-grid’ as possible.
Our clients have been integral to the design process, ensuring the home meets their specific needs and desires. Their involvement from the outset has been crucial in developing a home that truly reflects their vision. The clients will be self-building this home, which will serve as their long-term permanent residence.
Sustainability
PV panels generate electricity for the home and supply surplus energy to the grid, while an air source heat pump reduces reliance on conventional heating. High levels of insulation, careful orientation and high-quality materials support the creation of a low-energy self-build home. A bug hotel and new planting also contribute to the biodiversity of the site.
Context & Place
Carefully designed views create a connection with the surrounding outdoor environment. The natural material palette blends the design into the local agricultural setting.
People & Communities
By prioritising sustainable design, respecting the natural surroundings, and involving our clients in every step of the process, Footprint Architects has created a home that not only meets Passivhaus standards but also embodies the principles of eco-friendly, affordable living.
Affordable Self Build Passive House Design
At Footprint Architects, we specialise in creating eco-friendly homes using affordable design solutions. By carefully analysing the site, we optimised the home’s position for solar gain and protection from prevailing winds. South-facing windows maximise useful sunlight during winter, while integrated solar shading helps prevent overheating during the summer.
PV panels will generate electricity for the home and supply surplus energy to the grid, while an air source heat pump will provide efficient heating and support the aim of keeping the building as close to ‘off-grid’ as possible.
Improving Living Spaces Through Sustainable Design
Eco-homes designed to Passivhaus standards create comfortable, healthy living environments that reduce the building’s energy demand. The aim of this project is to enhance the quality of the living spaces and strengthen the connection promoting better use of the garden with minimal impact on the surrounding context.
The design features a simple built form that establishes key living areas connected to outdoor spaces, providing privacy without encroaching on neighbouring properties.
This approach results in an affordable home with lower energy bills, an airtight structure, and a cleaner, healthier living environment.
Our fabric-first approach includes:
- High levels of insulation in the walls, floor, and roof designed to exceed the requirements of building regulations.
- Maximised airtightness to reduce cold draughts and improve energy efficiency.
- Strategically positioned windows to harness winter sunlight.
- Thermal mass to maintain stable indoor temperatures year-round
Together, these measures create an affordable self build Passive House with lower energy bills, an airtight building envelope and a comfortable, healthy internal environment.
Enhancing Biodiversity and Sustainability
- A bug hotel and new flower-rich area enhance local biodiversity
- An ancient hedgerow was carefully relocated to preserve the natural habitat
- Multiple solar panels supply electricity to the home and the wider grid
- An air source heat pump (ASHP) helps reduce the home’s energy consumption and supports the aim of remaining as close to “off-grid” as possible
- An upgraded septic tank will reduce the nitrates and phosphorus discharges, helping the new home minimise its impact on the natural environment
Designing Sustainable Countryside Homes
Our architects are experienced in designing sustainable modern homes that reflect the unique characteristics of their sites. Donkey Lane Passive House embraces its picturesque agricultural setting, using natural materials selected for their sustainable properties and low embodied carbon.
The choice of natural larch cladding and a light grey zinc roof creates a muted colour palette that complements the agricultural setting.
The L-shaped design efficiently separates living spaces from storage and garage areas, with the southern wing dedicated to living spaces for optimal solar gain and privacy.
The simple form, natural material palette and carefully positioned openings allow this self build Passive House to respond sensitively to its rural setting while creating a comfortable and energy-efficient permanent home.
Planning a Self Build Passive House?
Explore our Self Build services and Passive House design services to learn how we can support your project from initial ideas through planning, design and construction.
Footprint Architects are also a part of the LivedIn Self-Build Cohort, providing specialist self build expertise across Dorset and the wider South of England.
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Get Your Project Off The Ground
Get in touch today to kick-start your project. Let us know a few details and we’ll be in touch to discuss bringing your vision to life. Or call us on 01202 818 966