• bespoke contemporary design
• energy-efficient
• sustainable materials
• precision German manufacture
• total design & build

Ecological Design

Ecological design is a term which is widely-used, but perhaps less well understood - or more accurately it can mean different things to different people.

With the introduction of the Code for Sustainable Homes in 2006, there is now an agreed standard implied by the term. At Form & Space however, we consider the Code represents a minimum level, and endeavour to exceed the specifications whenever possible.

How We Define 'Ecological design'

sustainability

• Building elements are designed to optimise the lengths & sizes of timber and materials produced in Germany, minimising wastage at the fabrication stage.
• Off-site construction means little waste in comparison to a conventional build.
• Packaging and waste material generated on-site is returned to Germany for recycling on the vehicles which service the project.
• Carbon-neutral sources of energy are deployed for space heating - these can include solar panels, woodchip-fuelled boilers and the recycling of 'exhaust air' by the ventilation system.

environmental impact

• Over 95% of materials incorporated in the fabric of the building are recyclable.
• Minimum on-site build time reduces noise and traffic movement.
• Build process requires few 'wet trade' processes, minimising risk of ground contamination.
• Packaging and waste material generated on-site is returned to Germany for recycling on the vehicles which service the project.
• Carbon-neutral sources of energy are deployed for space heating - these can include solar panels, woodchip-fuelled boilers and the recycling of 'exhaust air' by the ventilation system.

energy consumption and carbon footprint

• All timber used is from sustainable sources, additionally the primary insulation is manufactured from recycled paper; the secondary insulation is either flax or hemp.
• 'Breathing Wall' technology to create a congenial & healthy habitat.
• Meticulous detailing & fabrication contributes to a very high degree of air-tightness and minimises energy demands.
• Materials & components are non-toxic to the greatest extent practicable.
• Packaging and waste material generated on-site is returned to Germany for recycling on the vehicles which service the project.
• Highly efficient ventilation system with heat recovery system -70% of heat is recovered via a heat exchanger to pre-heat incoming air.

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