This is the first year the DIA have run a sustainability award, and we hope to include this as a permanent feature when the full DIA Awards recommence in 2022.
Kirsty Maguire Architect Ltd is winner of the inaugural DIA 2021 Sustainability Award with the Urban Woodland Passivhaus Home.
Set in the formerly landscaped grounds of Invergowrie House in Dundee, this new family home is nestled within mature trees and looks out over the Tay Estuary. Timber and zinc clad reflect the woodland setting and the ever-changing light on the nearby water. The main living spaces are at first floor to take advantage of the long views to the landscape while maintaining the privacy of the neighbours.
Influenced by the history of the neighbouring Invergowrie House, it is a contemporary home that respects its listed neighbour as well as having its own strong identity.
As well as meeting the passivhaus standard, it has an ‘eco’ low impact construction. It has been built using eco friendly wood based insulation and using a timber structure. Hence, it is low embodied energy and is low carbon and low energy in use. Cladding is Scottish larch and recyclable, long lasting zinc. The small energy needs of the house are powered by PV panels and an air source heat pump, further reducing the environmental impact in use
