The Hanson EcoHouse

"Our objective was to show that a thermally efficient, low carbon house could be built in a way that was both viable for developers and appealing to potential purchasers, and maybe just as important, easy to operate."

Gerry Feenan, Managing director of Hanson's Floors and Precast division

Built in 2007 the Hanson EcoHouse was the first masonry house to achieve Code Level 4 under the Code for Sustainable Homes, with its construction bringing together the latest developments in off-site construction, thermal mass and natural ventilation.

Along with its distinctive appearance, provided by a steeply pitched roof and central chimney, the house's key features include:

Thermal mass -two years of tests on the house have demonstrated the benefits of high levels of thermal mass, which were achieved with pre-fabricated masonry external walls, heavyweight block internal partitions, and a pre-cast staircase and concrete floors. This mass allows the building to store heat during warm periods and release it during cooler spells or at night. The tests proved the house's ability to stay cooler in summer and warmer for longer in winter.

Natural ventilation - with a central stair core below the roof opening, the design maximises convection in much the same way as a kiln (its shape being similar) draws hot air up through a brick stack and out of the chimney, while simultaneously drawing in cool fresh air at a low level. The kiln shape also creates a large, light-filled open plan living area on the first floor of the building.

Energy and water - a solar collector and ground source heat pump helps meet the house's energy needs. SUDS compliant external paving allows rainwater to pass through it and into a tanked sub-base. This combines with a layer of flexible piping linked to the ground source heat pump, to provide space heating and domestic hot water. The water is also filtered so that it is suitable for flushing toilets and watering plants.

Arrange a visit to the Hanson EcoHouse and the rest of the BRE Innovation Park using our online booking system, calling 0845 22 32 966 or emailing innovationpark@bre.co.uk