Case Study: Curly House
Curly House is a remarkable example of sustainable design, tailored to meet Passivhaus standards within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This unique home showcases innovative construction techniques and a commitment to energy efficiency.
Key Highlights
Sustainable Design: Curly House is designed to Passivhaus standards, ensuring minimal energy consumption and a reduced carbon footprint. Its sustainable design principles make it a model for eco-friendly living.
Crescent-Shaped Semi-Subterranean Structure: The home features a crescent-shaped, semi-subterranean design that steps into the slopes of the site. This unique architectural approach not only blends seamlessly with the natural landscape but also enhances the home’s thermal performance.
Material Selection: Timber was not considered for construction due to the potential for dampness. Instead, materials were chosen to ensure durability and resistance to environmental conditions.
Energy Efficiency: The 408.8 m² home is designed to minimize energy consumption. The use of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) acts as a buffer to thermal mass, ensuring a constant internal temperature and reducing the need for additional heating or cooling.
Performance Metrics: Curly House achieved an impressive air change rate of 0.2 ACH, surpassing Passivhaus standards. This low air change rate indicates excellent airtightness and energy efficiency.
Thermal Bridging: The design of Curly House minimizes thermal bridging, further enhancing its energy efficiency and comfort.
Curly House stands as a testament to the potential of sustainable design and innovative construction techniques in creating comfortable, energy-efficient homes.
