A unique plot
The shape and orientation of James and Corina’s South Oxfordshire plot meant that the property – which would later be known as Ashbrook Annex – needed to blend into its surroundings as much as possible. The solution to this was a contemporary, single storey dwelling built into the surrounding hillside with a grass roof, faced in sweet chestnut and local Cotswold stone. Light floods the ‘underground’ home from the glazed front of the building and a series of specialist roof lights embedded into the grass roof.
A modern, economical vision
James, who runs his own property development and house building company (Ashbrook Homes), had a very clear idea of the style of home he wanted to build for his family:
“We wanted the property to be modern, but not ‘in your face'”, he explains, “And we also wanted it to be cheap to run.”
Underfloor heating was central to this plan, providing efficient heating with low running costs to keep the property snug.
“Underfloor heating is the perfect fit for our new home. We didn’t need to worry about the location of radiators – which would have been difficult to accommodate as much of the front of the house is glazed.”
Why Nu-Heat?
Choosing Nu-Heat underfloor heating was an easy decision for James:
I have used Nu-Heat in other projects and have always found them to be well-priced, prompt and helpful in the design stages. Above all they offer a good product.
“We (Ashbrook Homes) installed the system ourselves and find it simple and straightforward. Laid under a liquid screed the system integrates perfectly with a new-build property with a minimum loss to head-height. Important when you are living underground!”
“An added bonus to our Nu-Heat underfloor heating is how easily it linked up with our home automation system. This means that we don’t need to worry about the schedules or performance, as they simply take care of themselves.”
Underfloor heating systems for new-build projects
Screed underfloor heating systems like the one installed at Ashbrook Annex are an ideal, cost-effective, heating solution for new-build projects, offering quick installation times that minimise impact on the overall build schedule.
