The Green Building Bible vol 1 + 2 (green building press)
http://www.greenbuildingbible.co.uk/
Monday, 1 December 2008
Ecovillage Findhorn
This village has been looking into sustainable living since 1962.
"We have erected 45 ecological buildings to date and there are ongoing plans for the continued construction of a built environment which is ecologically respectful.The Ecovillage Project has developed a unique construction system, environmentally sound and energy efficient. Using natural and non-toxic materials we have developed a breathing wall structure, which allows the fabric of a building to interact beneficially with people to moderate humidity and air quality. We have also experimented with straw bale construction, the Earthship system using recycled car tyres, and remain open to further new and innovative ecological solutions for the built environment."
Ecological details featured in our buildings include:
"We have erected 45 ecological buildings to date and there are ongoing plans for the continued construction of a built environment which is ecologically respectful.The Ecovillage Project has developed a unique construction system, environmentally sound and energy efficient. Using natural and non-toxic materials we have developed a breathing wall structure, which allows the fabric of a building to interact beneficially with people to moderate humidity and air quality. We have also experimented with straw bale construction, the Earthship system using recycled car tyres, and remain open to further new and innovative ecological solutions for the built environment."
Ecological details featured in our buildings include:
- Use of passive solar features where possible through orientation and window layout.
- Use of solar panels for domestic hot water heating.
- A district heating system using a gas condensing boiler for highest fuel efficiency.
- Super efficient insulation (U-values of 0.2 watts/m2 C in roof, walls and floors).
- Low-energy light bulbs throughout.
- Triple glazing (U=1.65 watts/m2 C).
- Cellulose insulation (made from recycled paper).
- Non-toxic organic paints and wood preservatives throughout.
- Boarding manufactured without the use of toxic glues or resins.
- Locally grown and harvested timber from managed forests.
- Local stone for skirting, patios and pathways.
- Roofing with natural clay tiles.
- Innovative 'breathing wall' construction allowing a controlled exchange of air & vapour, and eliminating the need for a conventional vapour barrier.
- Suspended timber floors for underfloor air circulation to avoid any possible build-up of radon gas.
- Isolating electrical circuits to reduce electromagnetic field stress.
- Water conservation (showers, low-flush toilets and self-closing taps).
- Collection and recycling of rainwater for garden use.
- Shared facilities (laundry, kitchens, lounges) avoiding unnecessary duplication.
- Simple timber frame construction and detailing, suitable for Self Building
Halvorsen architects
http://halvorsen-architects.co.uk/Philosophy
"Halvorsen Architects’ interest lies in modern design and how it may sympathetically be integrated into its context. The practice does this by letting its design philosophy govern everything from the planning strategy to the choice of materials and their careful detailing. Our buildings harmonise with their surroundings, both urban and rural. "
"Halvorsen Architects’ interest lies in modern design and how it may sympathetically be integrated into its context. The practice does this by letting its design philosophy govern everything from the planning strategy to the choice of materials and their careful detailing. Our buildings harmonise with their surroundings, both urban and rural. "
Green Thinking
"Halvorsen Architects believes that building sustainably not only benefits future generations but a building's current occupants. Wherever possible we introduce "green" features, such as use of daylight, non-toxic materials and breathable walls, to create a healthier and more comfortable internal environment. Breathable walls, for example, control a building's indoor air quality by naturally regulating humidity levels. They therefore reduce the risk of common complaints such as asthma. Halvorsen Architects' emphasis is on reducing the energy demands of a building, so the source of that energy becomes less important. This is mainly done by super-insulation and natural cooling. There is a misconception that green buildings cost more. They do not have to. Many of sustainable features that have a greater capital cost have a pay back and therefore are more economic in the long term, for example geothermal heating."
inscape ARCHITECTS
http://www.inscape.uk.com/Index.html
"Inscape Architects is committed to creating contemporary architecture that is sensitive to its context, responsive to the buildings' users needs and environmentally sustainable. Designing buildings is a complex process, and although Inscape has been involved in architecture for over 30 years, we know that we'll always be learning. It's also a collaborative effort, and that's why, as architects, our aim is to work as a team with our clients, other consultants and contractors. Buildings represent a major investment and an intensive use of resources. As architects, it is our responsibility to use those resources wisely, on behalf of our clients and for the care of our environment. We're pleased to say that Inscape's approach to architecture and design has been recognised by both local and national awards for completed work. More important, though, is that the buildings we help to create should make a positive, and lasting, contribution to our environment and be enjoyed by their users. "
SOLAR THERMAL PANELS Generally these should be the first choice for cost and energy contribution. The 10sq metres of panel mounted on the roof make a substantial contribution to the heating of hot water for washing and the laundry of this new 8 bedroom residential unit constructed for St Christopher's School, Westbury Park, Bristol.
LOW ENERGY HOUSE - HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION, SOLARIUM & THERMAL PANELS On sunny summer days the 4sq metres of thermal solar panels regularly heat a 210ltr. hot water storage cylinder to over 60C's providing the hot water needs of this 2 bedroom house in Gibson Road, Bristol.On a sunny mid winter day (20 December 05) a full tank of solar heated water was available at 57degs.C!A low energy ventilation installation keeps air fresh and condensation under control. The heat exchanger in this unit is very efficient and recovers up to 95% of the heat energy from exhausted air .A sliding double low 'E' glazed roof over the 'solarium' contributes solar heating. The solarium is separated from the main living space by retractable double glazed sliding doors so that a thermal buffer is created in winter when closed. In summer the roof can be half opened to provide copious ventilation and, if required, shade the glazed doors below (the louvres were not installed at the time of this photo).The house was designed to include high thermal mass in the construction to damp the day/night thermal cycle both in summer and winter. This has proven to be successful, the house is cool in summer and solar gain in winter is of benefit in the evening.
"Inscape Architects is committed to creating contemporary architecture that is sensitive to its context, responsive to the buildings' users needs and environmentally sustainable. Designing buildings is a complex process, and although Inscape has been involved in architecture for over 30 years, we know that we'll always be learning. It's also a collaborative effort, and that's why, as architects, our aim is to work as a team with our clients, other consultants and contractors. Buildings represent a major investment and an intensive use of resources. As architects, it is our responsibility to use those resources wisely, on behalf of our clients and for the care of our environment. We're pleased to say that Inscape's approach to architecture and design has been recognised by both local and national awards for completed work. More important, though, is that the buildings we help to create should make a positive, and lasting, contribution to our environment and be enjoyed by their users. "
SOLAR THERMAL PANELS Generally these should be the first choice for cost and energy contribution. The 10sq metres of panel mounted on the roof make a substantial contribution to the heating of hot water for washing and the laundry of this new 8 bedroom residential unit constructed for St Christopher's School, Westbury Park, Bristol.
LOW ENERGY HOUSE - HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION, SOLARIUM & THERMAL PANELS On sunny summer days the 4sq metres of thermal solar panels regularly heat a 210ltr. hot water storage cylinder to over 60C's providing the hot water needs of this 2 bedroom house in Gibson Road, Bristol.On a sunny mid winter day (20 December 05) a full tank of solar heated water was available at 57degs.C!A low energy ventilation installation keeps air fresh and condensation under control. The heat exchanger in this unit is very efficient and recovers up to 95% of the heat energy from exhausted air .A sliding double low 'E' glazed roof over the 'solarium' contributes solar heating. The solarium is separated from the main living space by retractable double glazed sliding doors so that a thermal buffer is created in winter when closed. In summer the roof can be half opened to provide copious ventilation and, if required, shade the glazed doors below (the louvres were not installed at the time of this photo).The house was designed to include high thermal mass in the construction to damp the day/night thermal cycle both in summer and winter. This has proven to be successful, the house is cool in summer and solar gain in winter is of benefit in the evening.SW Architects
http://www.swarchitects.org/
"Company OverviewSW Architects encourages clients to adopt energy efficient principles from the outset. The brief for the building, together with the surrounding environment underpins the entire project. However, passive and active design ideas, which help generate and harness energy, water and wind can provide creative and innovative designs.Our approach is always to simplify; we begin with the basic principle of a high thermal performance building fabric. Increased insulation standards and air-tightness will significantly reduce running costs. Buildings do however need to breathe and provide ventilation to their occupants and high thermal mass and shading devices ensure buildings do not overheat in the summer months. These are all important factors as our requirements for greater daylight and views lead to larger glazed areas.In conclusion, our aim is to design and create buildings which respond to the internal demands placed by their occupants and balance this with the external demands of our changing climate. "
The ZEDfactory
http://www.zedfactory.com/
The ZEDfactory
"As leaders in the field of zero-carbon design and development, we have a unique track record of delivering Zero (fossil) Energy Development (ZED) buildings in the UK."
"We are always pushing the boundaries to try to advance the construction industry's approach to low-carbon, low-impact buildings and to make the technologies and thinking more accessible to all. We do this in all sorts of ways - our current initiatives include a small exhibition(details coming soon) showing microgeneration technologies, and a 'ZEDshop' to pump-prime the supply chain and to reduce prices."
Realisation of latest buildings at Jubilee Wharf, Cornwall.
John Gilbert Architects
Site Start for Sustainable Housing ProjectA NEW PROJECT to bring sustainable, affordable housing to Glenmore has started on site in Cairngorms National Park. 30/09/08
Two timber houses, designed by John Gilbert Architects for Albyn Housing Society Ltd, will provide new homes and employment for local people. The project, in partnership with the Forestry Commission, is a pilot scheme to maximise the use of Scottish timber and sustainable materials for social housing.
Albyn Housing Society programme co-ordinator Helen Cameron said “We are delighted that this project is underway. The site, the former campsite shower block, was sold to Albyn Housing Society by the Forestry Commission under the Forest Land Scheme – an initiative which enables forestry land to be released for affordable housing. The project will deliver two sensitively-designed homes which will be economical to heat and run, which is so critical given current energy costs.”
Most of the building materials are environmentally friendly and from British sources, while the house design incorporates ecological features such as high-level insulation, multi-fuel stove heating for main rooms, rainwater harvesting. In addition, the windows are positioned to make the best use of natural sunlight and the view of surrounding woodland area.
Project architect Matt Bridgestock from John Gilbert Architects said: “The main aim is to build functional and robust social housing, with the maximum use of Scottish timber and minimising the amount of energy and carbon emissions throughout the build and occupation.
“Developing markets and products for Scottish timber has a much wider social and economic agenda, providing investment and regeneration across the Highlands of Scotland.”
The timber structure is built to be in keeping with the architecture of Glenmore, as seen on the adjacent campsite and visitors’ centre. These houses are specifically designed to the context of the location and have high aspirations to be a benchmark for design and sustainability in the Cairngorms National Park.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) approved the project based on the quality and strong sustainability goals of the development. CNPA planning officer Neil Stewart said: “The proposal is for much-needed, affordable housing in a relatively accessible location and with a sympathetic approach to what is a difficult site. This is an exemplar project that sets a desirable precedent for similar affordable housing developments.”
New, native trees will be mixed with the existing mature trees to create a cohesive canopy around the clearing, thus maintaining the forest setting.
Bob McIntosh, Director of Forestry Commission Scotland, said: "The project with the Albyn Housing Society is a great example of how the National Forest Estate, through the National Forest Land Scheme, can help to improve the quality of life and well-being of people across Scotland.
"The project is doubly important because as well as providing local people with affordable and efficient housing it will also highlight the important contribution Scotland’s home-grown timber can make towards sustainable construction."
Two timber houses, designed by John Gilbert Architects for Albyn Housing Society Ltd, will provide new homes and employment for local people. The project, in partnership with the Forestry Commission, is a pilot scheme to maximise the use of Scottish timber and sustainable materials for social housing.
Albyn Housing Society programme co-ordinator Helen Cameron said “We are delighted that this project is underway. The site, the former campsite shower block, was sold to Albyn Housing Society by the Forestry Commission under the Forest Land Scheme – an initiative which enables forestry land to be released for affordable housing. The project will deliver two sensitively-designed homes which will be economical to heat and run, which is so critical given current energy costs.”
Most of the building materials are environmentally friendly and from British sources, while the house design incorporates ecological features such as high-level insulation, multi-fuel stove heating for main rooms, rainwater harvesting. In addition, the windows are positioned to make the best use of natural sunlight and the view of surrounding woodland area.
Project architect Matt Bridgestock from John Gilbert Architects said: “The main aim is to build functional and robust social housing, with the maximum use of Scottish timber and minimising the amount of energy and carbon emissions throughout the build and occupation.
“Developing markets and products for Scottish timber has a much wider social and economic agenda, providing investment and regeneration across the Highlands of Scotland.”
The timber structure is built to be in keeping with the architecture of Glenmore, as seen on the adjacent campsite and visitors’ centre. These houses are specifically designed to the context of the location and have high aspirations to be a benchmark for design and sustainability in the Cairngorms National Park.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) approved the project based on the quality and strong sustainability goals of the development. CNPA planning officer Neil Stewart said: “The proposal is for much-needed, affordable housing in a relatively accessible location and with a sympathetic approach to what is a difficult site. This is an exemplar project that sets a desirable precedent for similar affordable housing developments.”
New, native trees will be mixed with the existing mature trees to create a cohesive canopy around the clearing, thus maintaining the forest setting.
Bob McIntosh, Director of Forestry Commission Scotland, said: "The project with the Albyn Housing Society is a great example of how the National Forest Estate, through the National Forest Land Scheme, can help to improve the quality of life and well-being of people across Scotland.
"The project is doubly important because as well as providing local people with affordable and efficient housing it will also highlight the important contribution Scotland’s home-grown timber can make towards sustainable construction."
Carpenter Oak LTD
http://www.carpenteroak.com/
"SUSTAINABILITY
Timber is one of the most sustainable building materials available, When it is growing, huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere are converted into wood, this carbon dioxide remains 'locked up' in the timber until it is burnt or returns to the natural cycle. This makes it one of the few materials which actively reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Our timber is grown in the UK or mainland Europe (primarily France) and does not take as long as one might think to grow. Typically oak will be useful as a framing timber even after 30 years and will reach its prime at about 120 years. The use of timber stimulates the forestry trade which responds by planting more trees. We undertake to ensure that for every tree we use we plant ten. These oak saplings are offered to our clients as a gift or planted out on suitable land elsewhere. "
"SUSTAINABILITY
Timber is one of the most sustainable building materials available, When it is growing, huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere are converted into wood, this carbon dioxide remains 'locked up' in the timber until it is burnt or returns to the natural cycle. This makes it one of the few materials which actively reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Our timber is grown in the UK or mainland Europe (primarily France) and does not take as long as one might think to grow. Typically oak will be useful as a framing timber even after 30 years and will reach its prime at about 120 years. The use of timber stimulates the forestry trade which responds by planting more trees. We undertake to ensure that for every tree we use we plant ten. These oak saplings are offered to our clients as a gift or planted out on suitable land elsewhere. "
Frame construction:
Roderick James Architects
http://www.rjarchitects.co.uk/home.html
"Established in 1974 and based in Totnes and Dartmouth, Devon, Roderick James Architects LLP specialise in contemporary architecture with a particular emphasis on space and light. We are especially known for our close association with Carpenter Oak Ltd and the design of timber frame buildings."
The Aspirational Timber home designs are what first interested me in sustainable design.
The Forestry Commission buildings used timber grown within view of the construction site and have high levels of insulation with geothermal heating, solarpanels, and 'grey water' harvesting.
For more information:
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/nf-awood-timber-framed-v3.pdf/$FILE/nf-awood-timber-framed-v3.pdf
Insulation:
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