Eco-Homes: Good for the environment and your pocket!
August 16, 2006 at 1:13 am
A family home in Cardiff has won the Grand Designs ‘Best Eco-House Award’ 2006. The ‘Coach House’ proves that stylish modern architecture and eco-friendly design are entirely compatible (for images of the house see www.chauncey.co.uk). The construction materials are an extremely efficient mixture of the ultra high-tech, and surprisingly simple. The house generates its own electricity via roof-mounted solar panels. No effort is spared in conserving this energy. Wall cavities are filled with natural sheep’s wool, and the house’s under-floor heating system uses less power to maintain the same temperature as conventional radiators.
The ‘Coach House’ is a prime example of eco-home innovation in a growing number of green developments that are springing up across the country. Devon’s ‘Oak Meadow’ project comprises some 30 homes that are great for the environment, and incredibly popular with its residents. Meticulous design has led to features like triple-glazing, larders using cool-air ventilation, and even rain-water operated toilets, to save on energy consumption. It certainly seems to work, one home-owner estimated that she was saving 40% on previous electricity bills in her new green home.
Eco-Homes look like they could be the future of housing, but you don’t need to move or break-the-bank to start making a difference to the environment and saving money on electricity bills. Anything from closing doors and switching-off lights, to improving your home’s insulation is a really positive start. Read Sparky’s tips for more energy saving advice.
