This property was formerly the caretaker’s home at the Richardson Dees School in Wallsend. It was originally a small, two bedroom, detached solid wall house and, prior to the refurbishment (see below), was heated by a conventional gas fired central heating system.

North Tyneside Council wanted to create a showcase dwelling with the smallest possible carbon footprint. To show what can be done with older, hard to treat properties, it was decided to utilise the maximum amount of renewable energy technology.

The first stage was to construct a highly insulated, sustainable, timber extension on the south elevation to provide an extra bedroom with en suite and more living space. At the same time work was carried out to internally insulate and dry line the original structure and double glazing was installed throughout.

The next task was to replace the elderly gas boiler and radiators. CES supplied a Baxi air sourced heat pump, which was installed in conjunction with under floor heating through out to maximise the operating efficiency and Vaillant supplied a solar thermal domestic hot water system. Energy efficient lighting and electrical equipment was installed as well as rainwater harvesting.

The works are now complete and the property is about to be let. During the coming heating season, when fully occupied, the energy consumption levels will be carefully monitored.