WEEK 31 - Hot stuff (Delay = 15 weeks)

The original architectural brief was to create a design-driven 21st century project based on sound architectural and engineering principles, using modern materials and commercial construction methods. At the same time, the challenge has always been to provide a positive, calm/homely ambiance, coupled with a bright, aspirational and highly energy efficient modern-day family living space.

With a super-efficient condensing boiler system, low energy and low voltage lighting, plus zoned heating controls, we’ve gone some way towards keeping our energy footprint under control.

And the insulation currently being installed in the bathroom is of a similar spec, with no sign of traditional mineral wool anywhere in sight. The Actis Triso-Super 10 is a complex arrangement of 19 individual insulating layers, originally used in industry and space research. More akin to a roll of kitchen tinfoil, the 30mm thermo-reflective insulation mat has the same insulation properties as 210mm of mineral wool. Even better, it stops the winter cold in its track and reflect the heat of rooms back inside. In the summer, the mat reflects solar radiation back outside, preventing overheating.