Cambridgeshire Eco Bungalow

This new-build, single-storey dwelling in the South Cambridgeshire District was designed to replace an existing bungalow and garage with a high-performance, eco-conscious home, built to meet the rigorous standards of Passivhaus. The design achieved full compliance with Passivhaus principles as demonstrated through PHPP modelling, and the completed home met the required airtightness test results. However, as this is the client’s long-term residence, they chose not to pursue formal certification.

The client’s brief was to create a ‘forever home’ — a practical, low-maintenance property that would combine traditional architectural styling with ultra-low energy performance. The resulting bungalow features a hipped roof to ensure visual consistency on all elevations while minimising the building’s massing and impact on the surrounding landscape.

Positioned on the edge of the green belt and opposite a Grade II listed building, the site presented particular planning considerations. A heritage statement and biodiversity survey were submitted in support of the successful planning application, ensuring the design respected both its historic and ecological context.

To maximise the site’s rural setting, large, south-facing windows frame open countryside views, while a level decked terrace provides generous outdoor amenity space. The building fabric is optimised to Passivhaus standards, incorporating high levels of insulation, excellent airtightness, and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system, delivering year-round comfort with minimal energy demand.

This carefully crafted home exemplifies our commitment to designing low-energy buildings that are contextually sensitive, technically robust, and tailored to the long-term needs of the occupants.

Curious about the Passivhaus standard? Discover more on our dedicated page, where we dive into the details of this sustainable building approach. If you’d like even more information, visit the Passivhaus Trust.