New eco-dwelling | Surrey
A low-energy retirement home with indoor pool nestled among mature trees
Andrew and Keiko live in a spacious period property with a large, south-facing garden in leafy Epsom. Looking ahead to retirement, they wanted to create a comfortable, low-maintenance eco-home within their own grounds—allowing them to “age in place” while significantly reducing their energy bills and environmental footprint.
They approached us to design a highly sustainable new dwelling that would sit lightly within the landscape and preserve the many mature trees on the site. This sensitive context shaped the design and layout of the house, carefully nestled among the existing greenery to maximise natural light while maintaining privacy and ecological value.
The house will be constructed from a timber frame using a 300mm 'double-stud' system, filled with natural cellulose insulation, delivering near-Passivhaus levels of performance. The roof-integrated solar PV array will generate a large portion of the building’s electricity, while an air-source heat pump will efficiently provide hot water and heating.
A key feature of the home is an indoor swimming pool with a counter-current system, enabling Andrew and Keiko to stay active and healthy year-round. Large glazed doors will provide garden views from the pool and living areas, connecting inside and out and enhancing their sense of wellbeing.
With its combination of natural materials, high-performance building fabric, and renewable technologies, the new home will allow Andrew and Keiko to enjoy a peaceful, energy-efficient lifestyle in a place they already love.
"Mark came up with a wonderful design which maximises the natural attributes of our rural site”
Geoff & Gail Aucock
“Mark’s contribution has been invaluable. I have recommended him to others and I would be happy to work with him again”
Ruth Stoton
“Mark has been very straight-forward and professional and has given me sound practical advice.”
Roger Ross
“Working with Mark was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We couldn't have been happier with the end result.”
Andrew & Emma Wilkie
"It's his quiet confidence that makes you feel more confident about what it is you’re doing. We would definitely recommend working with Mark from Koru."
Adele O’Hehir
"Koru Architects have been a 'breath of fresh air’ in helping me develop my concept and taking this through to design."
Gino Fox
"Mark’s designs have been very innovative, making good use of a difficult site. His service has pleased me enormously!"
Herb Etkin
Ready to discuss a project? Get in touch today.
01273 204065
info@koruarchitects.co.uk
Studio 221, 91 Western Road,
Brighton and Hove, BN1 2NW
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