by Nerissa Allen | 14 September 2024, 10:40

“This blog will showcase inspiring examples of successful, sustainable, self-built construction.”

Building a sustainable self-build is often perceived as complex due to the term "sustainable.” When it comes to green self-build, let’s face it: the term ‘sustainable’ can sometimes come with a hefty price. Yes, of course, one major concern for people or self-builders is the cost. However, as I mentioned in my previous blog about the benefits of sustainable construction, more and more people are opting for this type of build. Yes, the initial investment might be significant, but the long-term benefits make it totally worth it.

Think of it as the most effective method of economising in the long run. The endeavour of sustainable, or "green," self-building is truly commendable.

 Here are a few examples of great illustrations of sustainable construction:

A modern self-built house in the West London conservation area (Ealing) using steel framing.

 This modern, self-built house is set in a West London conservation area. It shows how a steel frame can create a lightweight, easy-to-build, elegant home. A sunspace traps the sun’s energy and provides additional living space.

Conservation areas are recognised as locations of exceptional architectural or historical significance, requiring proactive management to preserve their unique character. Every local authority in England is required to oversee at least one conservation area.

Most local authorities typically provide Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) that outlines specific considerations for each area.

 I read Jon Broome's book, ‘The Green Self-Build Book,’ which explains how to design and build an eco-home. He is an award-winning architect specialising in low-energy design and sustainable building. He has self-built two houses.

From his book, I learned that this modern self-built house is quite a surprise. It is located between large Victorian villas and terraced cottages in a suburban neighbourhood in Ealing. It is modern, featuring a single-pitch steel roof and a double-height steel and glass winter garden.

 The self-builders assumed that the planning authority would only approve a building that "would preserve and enhance the visual amenity of buildings and the character and appearance of the conservation area" according to planning legislation.

They met with many architects, but they found most of them uninteresting. Finally, they met two young architects starting their own business after working at significant, well-known, design-led practices. The two architects proposed a more adventurous design for a modern house.

The conservation officer supported their design in the planning department. After 15 months, the development control officers agreed that a modern house, located between traditional houses and a 1950s bungalow, would not harm the environment and would be a positive addition to the area.

Using Frame Construction

They have used frame construction, which is adaptable because none of the walls carries the weight of the building. They can be relocated at will, and doors and windows can be created in any position. The steel frame, formed of standard sections, structural hollow sections (SHS), and parallel flange channels (PFC), is light in weight and slender. Steel is a very adaptable building material, as it can be formed into any shape you wish.

Foundation

They had trouble with the foundation. The ground had a lot of clay and was surrounded by trees, so it needed piled foundations. These are good for self-builders because they reduce the amount of digging and eliminate the need for ground beams. However, some ground beams were needed because they built a concrete trench to access storage space under the house. While they were building, the formwork for the trench burst while they were pouring concrete. Thankfully, they managed to avoid it, but the formwork, made of oriented strand board (OSB) instead of plywood, had to be repaired and strengthened.  

The self-build process in this modern self-built house has some advantages for inexperienced self-builders. Unlike experienced builders, they seek the right advice and do not make assumptions about unfamiliar techniques like piling or steel roofing. However, one limitation is not knowing when to take shortcuts or the appropriate level of accuracy for different tasks.

One builder described setting the building ready for piling as one of the scariest moments, emphasising the importance of accuracy, level, and squareness in the initial frame to avoid later problems. Additionally, setting the level of the drains is critical to ensure proper drainage.

The dedicated individuals who built this exceptional home have tirelessly crafted a beautiful, energy-efficient residence. This home is a shining example of the possibility of designing low-impact housing in a wide range of architectural styles, from the timeless and traditional to the innovative and experimental.

Another one is this Super-insulated, Air-Tight Home and artist’s studio in Somerset…

This project was designed to meet the most robust environmental and sustainability standards while maintaining a high aesthetic finish.

The project has exceptionally high eco credentials, fits beautifully into the landscape, and was fully supported by its neighbours. Although not certified as a Passivhaus, it was driven by these standards. A Passivhaus Timber Frame and Foundation System from MBC Timber Frame were used to ensure an airtight, cold-bridge-free thermal envelope.

Lastly, an old bungalow with a new structure was built to Passivhaus standards.

Photography – Ed RS Aves

Located in an urban environment in Woburn, near Milton Keynes, the project replaced an old bungalow with a new structure built to Passivhaus standards. It features high levels of insulation, airtightness, and triple-glazed windows. The building was carefully sited to respect the neighbouring properties and integrated with the landscape through thoughtful planting of native species. The exterior features black-stained timber and powder-coated aluminium details, while the interior boasts minimalist, contemporary finishes for a balanced and serene living space.

Photography – Ed RS Aves

 CONCLUSION

Self-builders, individuals who plan and construct their own homes, collectively now contribute to more new housing units than the largest individual house-building companies. This growing trend of people taking on the responsibility of creating their own adaptable, low-environmental-impact residences presents a promising model for the type of new housing required in the 21st century. The increasing number of individuals opting to build their own homes benefits them and society. However, there is a need to encourage the construction of energy-efficient, 'green' homes as the standard so that most self-builders embrace sustainable building practices.

References:

The Green Self-Build Book, 2021 by Jon Broome

Architecture for London, accessed [10 Sept 2024] via website

MBC Timber Frame, accessed [10 Sept 2024] via website