Donkey Lane Passive House
Located outside the historic countryside location of Bere Regis, Wareham this sustainable home has been designed to Passivhaus standards. It is designed to be 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
Multiple PV Panels supply energy to the home and grid. An ASHP ensures the homes energy consumption is reduced. Utilising high levels of insulation, careful positioning for solar gains, and high-quality materials for a low energy self-build home. A bug hotel significantly enhances the biodiversity net gain.
Affordable Passive House Design
At Footprint Architects, we specialize in creating eco-friendly homes using affordable design solutions. By carefully analysing the site, we optimized the home’s position for solar gains and wind protection. South-facing windows maximize winter sunlight, while integrated solar shading prevents overheating during summer. PV panels will provide power to the site along with ASHP to keep 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 energy consumption of the building. The aim of this project is to enhance the quality of living spaces, 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.
Our fabric-first approach includes:
- High levels of insulation in the walls, floor, and roof to exceed building regulations.
- Maximized 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.
This approach results in an affordable home with lower energy bills, an airtight structure, and a cleaner, healthier living environment.
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.
Enhancing Biodiversity and Sustainability
- A bug hotel and new flower area enhance local biodiversity.
- An ancient hedgerow was carefully relocated to preserve the natural habitat.
- Multiple solar panels supply energy to the home and the grid.
- An air source heat pump (ASHP) ensures the home remains as close to “off-grid” as possible.
- An upgraded septic tank will reduce the nitrates and phosphorus discharges to ensure this new build home reduces its impact on the natural environment
Designing Sustainable Homes in Countryside Settings
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 create a muted colour tone to compliment 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.
People & Communities
By prioritizing 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.
Relevant Projects
An award winning affordable self-build, eco-friendly home focusing on passive house design principles
An award-winning modern farmhouse refurbishment, barn conversion and house extension to a Grade II Listed house
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.
