Petit Choffin

This contemporary energy efficient home was designed for a private client fully utilising the properties of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) to provide generous dramatic open spaces. The design pushed the limits of what could be achieved with this form of construction, creating airy volumes with exposed glulam beams and posts, which continue externally to create an outside living space.
The site was previously completely occupied by glasshouses and a small low quality bungalow which was beyond economic repair. The design carefully utilises building forms familiar to the area, rendered walls, slate pitched roof, presenting a modest elevation to the street of a scale and form in keeping with the surroundings, with contemporary detailing. The use of accommodation in the roof void has enabled the massing and height of the building to be kept to a minimum without compromising on the internal volumes. An apple orchard has now been planted in the agricultural part of the site in association with James Meller to provide apples for Rocquettes cider, and a glasshouse has been approved for the cultivation of soft fruits, maintaining the agricultural heritage of the site.
The house is constructed from highly insulated SIPs with additional insulation applied externally, and highly efficient thermally broken glazed windows and screens. this provides an external envelope that is exceeds the requirements for insulation levels and air tightness, thus reducing the amount of energy required to heat the property. An air source heat pump combined with solar panels, underfloor heating and a MVHR system provides an energy efficient heating and airflow system throughout the house.