Sto External Wall Insulation/Martine Hamilton Knight
In the centre of Birmingham City lies an unassuming semi-detached Victorian house.
Enter John Christophers of Associated Architects and an award winning house that produces as much energy as it consumes appears in the heart of the city.
The West Midlands was the proud recipient of two national architecture awards given by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
The revolutionary Zero Carbon House as well as St. Luke’s CE School captured the attention of the Institute on an architectural basis as well as an eco-friendly one.
RIBA President Ruth Reed stated:
“the RIBA Awards are for buildings that offer value to people’s lives.”
John Christophers desired to create a home in Balsall Heath for him and his family adhering to Level 6 of the new Code for Sustainable Homes. Meeting the highest standard for green technology, the Zero Carbon House is the very first Victorian terraced property to achieve the highest level recommended by the government. The converted home produces energy that is then deposited back into the national grid as well as making use of thermal insulation, triple glazing and a solar roof.
RIBA Regional Director, Matthew Dobson said:
“I am delighted for John and for the team at Architype. The Zero Carbon House and St Luke’s School represent excellence in architecture and demonstrate that work of the highest standard is happening right here in the Midlands.”
Externally, it has an entirely different character to the neighbouring area but certainly adds to the urban streetscape. It is full of quirky, eco-friendly and well-considered details and is a robust and thoughtful design of exceptional quality.
