Fairview: A Low-Energy Home Achieving an Outstanding EPC A – 104A

We are proud to share the near completion of our Fairview project — a contemporary, low-energy family home that has achieved an exceptional EPC rating of A – 104A.

Fairview was conceived as a high-performance home that sits lightly on the land, both literally and environmentally. The new dwelling was designed to sit on the existing foundations and follow the original footprint of a previously altered and inefficient chalet bungalow. By reusing these foundations and maximising the site’s potential, we created a sustainable home tailored to contemporary family life.

With spectacular views to the north-east over the floodplains of Lewes and Offham, the previous dwelling failed to take full advantage of its location. Internally, it was compromised with small windows, dark rooms and a layout that had been adjusted many times over the years. It was also extremely energy-hungry and in need of comprehensive renovation.

Our approach focused on transforming the site into a bright, open and healthy living environment, supported by a suite of integrated sustainable technologies and fabric-first design.

Key sustainable features include:

• Home battery storage

• Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR)

• A 9kWp solar PV array

• Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)

• Underfloor heating throughout

• Very low U-values for walls, roof and glazing

• Passive solar design and careful orientation

With a total internal area of 216 m², the house has been designed to connect more meaningfully with its surrounding landscape. The new design makes better use of external amenity spaces, including new terrace surfaces and landscaping. Glazing to the north-east has been carefully positioned to maximise views and natural light while retaining privacy thanks to the elevated and set-back nature of the site.

Alterations to the existing garage have created a flexible gym space with further views to the landscape beyond. The result is a carefully considered, low-energy family home that delivers high standards of environmental performance without compromising on quality of materials, spatial experience or liveability.

Fairview is a demonstration of how thoughtful, sustainable architecture can improve both the performance and enjoyment of a home, and we are delighted to see it delivered to such a high standard.