Design Buy Build Issue 41 2019 | Page 89

Architectural Projects The solution to this potentially ‘big ask’ project was to use Passivhaus design standards alongside traditional site analysis design strategies to ensure holistic approach that all possibilities for sustainability into account. Through detailed natural landscaping the scheme retains and enhances the site’s biodiversity, achieved by: • retaining the existing native boundary hedgerows and many trees – providing habitat corridors The layout of the dwelling and site was designed, positioned and orientated to maximise solar gain with ancillary accommodation located to the North. The proposal featured a large footprint in an attempt to reflect the agricultural nature and features of the area. • planting of a coppice an orchard we well as numerous screen trees of varying varieties • provision of owl and bat boxes around the site With an approximate total floor space of 430m², a ridge and eaves height of 9.5m and 5.3m respectively, the dwelling represents a contemporary interpretation of a barn development, with the materials being a mixture of brick and timber cladding (walls) and a combination of slate and zinc standing seam (roof) with photovoltaic (solar PV) to the south elevation and air source heating and hot water. The site, located within open countryside, previously functioned as agricultural land and was approved under paragraph 79 of the National Planning Policy Framework as being truly innovative for the district. Furthermore, the intended shelter planting and the introduction of a pond/reed bed increases and enhances the sites biodiversity. Established in 2011 Swann Edwards is an architectural practice based in Guyhirn, Wisbech. The practice works on a huge variety of different architectural projects including: residential; industrial and commercial; eco-friendly; community, and educational schemes. A market leader in Cambridgeshire when it comes to environmentally friendly and low carbon architecture, the firm’s director, James Burton, became a certified Passivhaus 89 designer in 2014 and designed the first Passivhaus dwelling in the Fenlands. The Passivhaus concept delivers ultra- low energy buildings that focus on conserving resources and maximising occupancy comfort. W: www.swannedwards.co.uk Kiff Photography Ltd