We were appointed by JCDC Developments to provide Energy consultancy services throughout the development of a five-bedroom detached dwelling in East Somerset.

With its unique design, this new home named ‘The Trees’, is like no other. Recognisable from its two striking zinc clad towers, the property has been constructed from a mixture of reclaimed timber, zinc and stone re-used from the existing site, all of which allow this new build to blend into its rural surrounding perfectly.

Through the electric gates and down the impressive sixty metre driveway, the property sits at the end of its just less than a quarter acre plot. With clever planting and the wealth of existing surrounding trees and hedging, the property has a countryside feel while sitting in the heart of the charming historic town of Frome in East Somerset. The rural theme continues inside the building with the use of industrial steel kitchen units, a timber topped island and engineered oak flooring. The space is flooded with light from numerous triple glazed windows and floor to ceiling double glazed aluminium sliding doors. There is a remarkable galvanised steel spiral staircase leading up to a master bedroom, dressing room and en-suite, and from here you can slide back the double doors and step on to the show-stopping private balcony for spectacular views. The unique curved walls of the towers also provide an added spectacular feature as you pass through the rooms.

We provided design services to JCDC Developments to help establish the thermal performance of the property along with assisted input on appropriate MEP systems to ensure future efficiency and low-cost bills. Complexities arose regarding the two circular towers, trying to ensure consistency of insulation through curved walls in a complex timber frame structure provided its challenges. These issues were overcome during the design phase with the client and we subsequently provided Design and As Built SAP Assessments, EPC Lodgement, U-Value Calculations, Part G Water Calculations and Condensation Risk Analysis. Our client is pleased with the services that we provided on this project, and made the following comment:

There are always so many options when it comes to specifying materials that it’s nice to pin down the best alternatives with people that understand the construction methods.’

Dan Carr, Director of JCDC Developments

‘It was fantastic to work on such an interesting dwelling that provided different challenges to the average new build. The A grade result from the EPC was a great outcome and well deserved. Not only does the dwelling look good within its green setting, but it also performs green.’

                                                                                Senior Energy Consultant, Matt Hodges

Our sister company, Cook Brown Building Control, were also appointed to provide full Building Control services on this project. They are an Approved Inspector and provide Building Control services to oversee compliance aspects and to ensure that projects comply with Building Regulations.

As an Independent Assessment Company, we champion sustainability in construction for our clients across England, Wales and Scotland, by providing a wide range of Energy Solutions ranging from dedicated consultancy services, SAP, SBEM, MEES and BREEAM Assessments and Energy and Sustainability Statements.

To discuss Energy solutions with us, please contact 01275 848995 or visit www.cookbrownenergy.co.uk.