Ecobuilding



Ecobuilding is a fantastic opportunity to not only build a structure which is built solely from green materials, but also a challenge of a craftsman's skills. Working with Dan was an absolute pleasure and his skills in design and finishing were second to none. The final result is something that not only looks beautiful but has strong functionality and is great for the environment.
Jordan Winser

Outbuilding with Biodiverse Roof

My inspiration for this project came when working with the Groundhouse (see below). As well as helping the environment, the tyre walls and living roof provide excellent sound and heat insulation at very minimal material costs. All of the soil and hardcore generated by digging down was relocated into the tyres. It has proved that such a building can be constructed in a very tight space and in a garden with no side access.

Below is a slideshow of an ecobuilding project that I designed and constructed with the close help of Jordan Winser Landscape Design & Build.

Ecobuilding refers to a process that is environmentally responsible and creates a structure that is resource-efficient throughout: from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort.
  • Build 0 S
  • Build 1 S
  • Build 2 S
  • Build 3 S
  • Build 4 S
  • Build 5 S
  • Build 6 S
  • Build 7 S

The Groundhouse: Build + Cook


Our original intention was to build our own kitchen from salvaged oak. Past experience had shown me how hard it can be to get the smooth functionality that comes with properly engineered drawers and cupboards. Fortunately Dan, a master kitchen carpenter was keen to work on the groundhouse and up for the challenge of working with our rough sea worn oak. The end result to his dedication to this task couldn't be better and fits the feel of the house perfectly. His skill gave us the 'engineered' smooth running space we need to store, prepare and cook - a real achievement with wood salvaged from the sea .
Daren Howarth - The Groundhouse

The Groundhouse Project

Groundhouse is simply a home aligned with nature in all three aspects of design: architecture, systems and materials. The fruition of a 10 year strand of work on earthships and biotecture.

Construction follows the tried and tested 'earthship' rammed earth wall building technique using tyres as formers for the rammed earth. Around 150 tonnes of rammed earth is used in the external walls. The result is a wall which is indestructible. The rammed earth is also enclosed in 100mm of underground insulation which acts as a 'blanket' enabling the walls to act as giant storage heaters for the building. The main underground insulation is made from 80% recycled glass and completely stable indefinitely. Damp proofing is achieved using visqueen ecomembrane, providing a permanent 0.5mm barrier around the entire walls and under

Each room has a complete opening trifold front face onto the outside terrace, set in it's own organic garden. Comfort and style go hand in hand with the salvage designer kitchen and luxury bath and shower. Ecotechnologies and building design deliver solar power, solar hot water, rainwater for washing, and a steady comfortable interior temperature. Two efficient lean burn woodburners provide extra warmth and ambience when necessary. The house is easy and very economical to run and live in.

The heart of the house is the open plan lounge and kitchen, the fire room, from where the roundroom, as well as the 3 bedrooms can be directly accessed. The roundroom is a stunning and versatile space, over 6 metres across with vaulted ceiling rising up to a wooden hub that opens to the sky. It provides studio space for use as an office, workshop space, additional master bedroom or living room. The project was broadcast on Grand Designs in the UK. The video is available to watch on the groundhouse website here. The book "The Groundhouse Build + Cook" is also available on the groundhouse website here.

  • House 2
  • House
  • Plan
  • Kitchen 2
  • Kitchen

Outbuilding with Biodiverse Roof

My inspiration for this project came when working with the Groundhouse (see below). As well as helping the environment, the tyre walls and living roof provide excellent sound and heat insulation at very minimal material costs. All of the soil and hardcore generated by digging down was relocated into the tyres. It has proved that such a building can be constructed in a very tight space and in a garden with no side access.

Below is a slideshow of an ecobuilding project that I designed and constructed with the close help of Jordan Winser Landscape Design & Build.

Ecobuilding refers to a process that is environmentally responsible and creates a structure that is resource-efficient throughout: from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort.