Old Holloway biobased self build,
Individual Self-Build in Birch
Completed: 2017
About this home:
Old Holloway was the first UK application of EcoCocon timber/ straw prefabricated panel system (also a passivhaus certified component). Prefabrication allowed for rapid and accurate construction (example: external walls were erected in three days and the whole house watertight in four weeks). Simple and robust detailing and airtightness strategies, suitable for self-build construction, were adopted. EcoCocon system provides a healthy, high performing construction system, with very low environmental impact. Old Holloway was the Small Projects winner at 2018 Passivhaus Trust Awards and runner-up at 2019 ASBP Awards.
Features:
Clay Render / Plaster
MVHR
Council Committee Decision
Modular Straw
PassivHaus
Solar Panels
Featured on Grand Designs
Innovative Materials
Innovative Construction Techniques
Offsite Construction
Straw Bale
Airtight Design
Individual Self-Build
Modular Construction
Low Cost Construction
Wood Fibre Insulation
Newspaper Insulation
Recycled Materials
Air Source Heat Pump
Timber Frame
Planning Insights:
36 months at planning
Our initial planning application was turned down, as the plot was outside of the defined settlement boundary. We engaged a planning consultant, who advised to wait until the local authority adopted a Local Development Plan (LDP), which allowed more residential devlopment across the county of Herefordshire. Our village was included in the list of areas where proportionate development was going to be possible. After the LDP was adopted, we finally got planning permission at planning committee.
Project Challenges
Building with natural materials
A selection of natural and low carbon materials was used in the construction: EcoCocon timber straw prefabricated panels, clay plasters, locally sourced timber cladding, recycled cellulose insulation
Design that would satisfy landowners
The design had to gain approval from landowners prior to submitting the planning application. A simple, agri-vernacular house design was appropriate to satisfy this condition.
A truly affordable house
The design is deliberately modest, simple and cost effective, resulting in relatively low construction costs and zero energy bills, whilst providing a super healthy home for a small family.
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