Why it is special
The Tree House claims to adapt to changes in the weather, providing shelter and shade using sun and rain. There are south-facing gardens on every floor off the living and sleeping areas.

How it is built
Of a timber skeleton covered with seamless, pre-cut, super-insulated structural insulation panels. The floor is also of timber. South-facing glazing maximises the sun’s heat and light, while shelving and cupboards provide an extra layer of insulation on the north-facing walls.

Eco features
The ground-source heat pump system
is powered by photovoltaic panels, which also provide 75 per cent of the home’s electricity needs. There is low-temperature underfloor heating and a rain-harvesting system will cut water bills by half. A heat-exchanger extracts warmth from stale air from within the house and warms fresh air brought in from outside.

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