A sustainable retrofit project and exterior transformation

This 1950’s brick house was dark, dingy, unattractive and in much need of a transformation. The challenge was to transform the exterior of the property and reconfigure the internal space to better suit the homeowners contemporary lifestyle whilst also bringing in lots more light and opening up views.

Absolute Architecture achieved above and beyond their client’s aspirations and the home is now unrecognisable from the original design. Working closely to translate the client’s vision and through applying a fabric first approach, the property is vastly more energy efficient, space is now bright and frames fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Location: Cray’s Pond, Oxfordshire

Materials: External insulated render, Velfac triple glazed, aluminium and timber composite windows were used to apply a ‘thermal jacket to the building and transform the appearance.

Clever aspects: Delivering a complete transformation – the house is now unrecognisable from the 1950’s starting point! Also brought in light and opened up views.

Friends on the project: Romans Building Design, Velfac

We love: The utter transformation of the exterior! Our owners now love the house they come home to, they are much more comfortable and reaping the rewards of significantly reduced energy bills.. Absolute Architecture opened up internal connections meaning that the whole house is now much better used, with much more light and architecturally interesting spaces.

Sustainability/Eco elements: A fabric first approach was key to this project. The introduction of a new ‘thermal jacket’ is key to achieving better insulation values and improved air tightness. Heat gain is minimised with strategic shading and internal rooflights providing natural stack ventilation.