A Castle fit for a Queen's Garden

Friday, 09 July 2010 13:10

Property Type: Detached

Ownership Status: Freehold

What eco-improvements did you make to your property?

Replacing the entire roof and adding a much thicker insulation to the roof space (its a flat roof).
200mm external insulation was added to all the new walls of the property.
Living wall added to two walls.
Heat exchangers added to two of the bathrooms.
All windows replaced with wooden triple glazed complete units with trickle vents.
Solar thermal added to the roof.
All internal painting done with no VOC paints.
No MDF used throughout
FSc certified wood only allowed.
Lighting replaced with low energy alternatives.
Garden space added on the roof.
Natural lighting from walk on glass on roof.
 

What positive and negative experiences did you have?

Both the new roof space (which is now a stunning area to enjoy the sunlight) and the living wall make for wonderful new features to the house.

Although the internal works are not yet complete the house already feels warmer and we look forward to enjoying the new light the 3 skylights have given. The main negatives are the timescales and cost, both of which have been greater than originally expected.

What are the benefits to your home and lifestyle?
As the internal works are not yet complete it is hard to say what the big benefits are but I can already see the roof becoming a great place to enjoy afternoons.

What advice would you give to others considering similar improvements?
Although I would heartily recommend putting the design into the hands of a good eco architect I would also try to oversee the final touches yourself. Builders especially don't think about final aesthetics and keeping an eye on those final touches can make all the difference.