Before and After Design: A Green Makeover

"One of the aims was to demonstrate the potential for reinstating original decorative details after external insulation," states Peter Warm of Warmhomes (01752 547965) who instigated the renovation that would give this Victorian home back its grandeur.

The semi-detached house situated in the Stonehouse Conversation Area, Plymouth, had been unoccupied for ten years — its neglect more than evident on the facade. However, dirty pebbledash, an uninviting, crumbling entrance and ill-suiting windows were the tip of the iceberg — beneath lay a cold, draughty home requiring a sustainable makeover.

The solution: solid wall insulation in the form of Pavatex, which was applied to the exterior. Insulation was also added in the loft space, and blown cellulose fibre applied to seal any resulting gaps in the loft; this insulative product helps create an airtight home, while allowing a building to breathe. Instrumental to the entire project were McCaren Architects (01752 209417) and contractors AD Williams (01752 840961).

Once the insulation was installed they were tasked with reinstating the original Victorian door and window surrounds. The aluminium windows were also replaced with timber sash windows, and the PVCu entrance door with a new timber model to match. Again, the white PVCu gutters and downpipes were removed to make way fo  black Lindab rainwater goods — which intimate black cast-iron models common to Victorian homes.

Black railing and a rebuilt entrance finish off the smart new facade. Inside, low-flush toilets, flow-regulating taps and showers, and a Vaillant A-rated condensing boiler complete the green makeover. This period home now boasts an Energy Efficiency Rating of ‘B’.

MAIN IMAGE: BEFORE and AFTER

1. Solid Wall Insulation - Pavatex insulation is made from wood fibre — the product insulates while allowing the building to breathe (ideal for old houses). 100mm of Pavatex diffutherm insulation from naturalbuilding.co.uk was used for this project

2. Sash Windows - Early Victorian sash windows were typically ‘six over six’ — like their Georgian predecessors. The sash windows specified here – from Ormonde Joinery Products (020 8391 4777) – were also chosen for their low U-value

3. Lime Render - Lime render is a natural finish which enables period buildings to breathe while also allowing for a degree of movement (unlike cement). A Bayosan self-finished lime render (naturalbuilding.co.uk) was used here.

4. Period Surrounds - The door and window surrounds were reinstated, giving character back to the previously vacant looking facade. The black timber front door – which matches cills and rainwater goods – is from IG Doors (01633 486860)

Further Reading:

• Windows & Doors: Energy Efficiency 
• Creating An Eco-Friendly Garden
• Eco Home Insulation