Northern Bear Building Services’ project at 113-115 Ouseburn Road, Newcastle proudly received a Lord Mayor’s Design Award in the Small Scale Private Sector category as well as being Commended Finalist in the category for sustainability.
Using a limited palate of robust materials, the two distinct houses have been created with a bold, modern and contemporary aesthetic. Despite the tight physical constraints, the houses have taken full advantage of the sloping ground and the beautiful surrounding natural landscape. Light, open internal spaces have been created maximising the use of natural light and seamlessly joining the internal and external spaces.
The pair were designed to be energy efficient and economical both in build and run. They are heated through Ground Sourced Heat Pumps via four 105m deep holes which heat both domestic hot water and a built in underfloor heating system. The exposed concrete floor construction helps to retain heat through the day and the natural ventilation is supplemented by a whole house mechanical heat recovery system.
