Case Study: Sustainable Garden Studio
MTA approached the design and construction of the Sustainable Garden Studio from the perspective of achieving a low-cost, low-energy and low-carbon build with minimal impact to its location.
SE1 RIBA Architects MTA won planning for a ground floor extension to a terraced house in a 80s residential development a modern kitchen, bathrooms and glazed roof and patio doors. Click here.
MTA approached the design and construction of the Sustainable Garden Studio from the perspective of achieving a low-cost, low-energy and low-carbon build with minimal impact to its location.
Used galvanised steel screw piles and a steel ring beam to minimize soil disruption and avoid damaging tree roots.
Avoided concrete to reduce carbon emissions; steel is recyclable and quicker to install.
Sections can be disassembled and reused, reducing waste.
Employed renewable timber for walls, floor, and roof framing.
Timber stores carbon, provides natural insulation, and has low embodied energy.
Element can be disassembled and reused.
Integrated high-spec insulation in all structural elements to exceed modern U-value targets.
Reduces heating/cooling demand and cuts greenhouse gas emissions.
Installed underfloor heating to deliver efficient, even warmth at lower energy use.
Use triple-glazed or double glazed windows and doors to retain heat in winter and reduce energy needs.
Inspired by Passivhaus standards for energy-efficient building envelopes.
Passive solar design to maximise natural light, heat from the sun reducing need for artificial lighting and heating
Fitted bespoke louvred screens and trickle vents to manage summer heat gain naturally.
Enhances comfort, maintains privacy, and requires no energy to operate.