The Courtyard House addresses a range of concerns, specifically, accessibility, modular construction methods, adaptability, sustainability and ecology.

Its accommodation is arranged on one level in an L-shaped courtyard layout, with clear definition between living/kitchen rooms and bedrooms. The house offers the potential to create enclosed private spaces that can be enjoyed from both living room and bedrooms.

The living room and bedroom blocks are designed for off-site manufacture. All internal partitions are lightweight and modules can be added to the house either vertically or horizontally. Internal flexibility is reinforced by the use of bathroom pods that can be disconnected and relocated as required.

The basic structure is made from hot rolled steel with cold rolled steel or timber infill. This frame is covered with pre-cut super-insulated panels. The external cladding is constructed on site.

This combination of modular construction and internal flexibility gives the home the capability to grow and adapt to changing family needs. The house can be occupied by single people, couples and families, and allows possibilities to work from home in a bespoke studio, or have a self-contained apartment for rent or occupation by a nanny or elderly parent.

The home makes the most of renewable energy, particularly passive and active solar gain. The glazed walls to the living room and bedrooms face south and west, with the heavy external wall to the north acting as a heat sink. The substantial roof area has photovoltaic panels to east, south and west faces. The house also has a ground-source heat pump system, powered by photovoltaic panels, low-temperature underfloor heating and rainwater harvesting.

This solution also explores the potential for a planted sedum roof. Areas for growing fruit and vegetables are included and defined within the plot to encourage healthier living and reduce food miles.

The house’s design relies on clean lines and simple forms, which align with the modular build approach. A broad palette of external materials could be applied to the home including brick, render, timber, recycled copper, zinc and glass.

The courtyard design can produce high densities while at the same providing attractive private spaces. The designers have, for this competition, explored
the potential of cluster groups of eight to ten homes.

© British Homes Awards |  Site design: LW design