Eco Homes

Wednesday 30 May 2012

TRESSOUR Wood, in the pretty village of Weem, near Aberfeldy, is one of Scotland's most notable eco houses and the forerunner of high-quality, sustainable rural housing.

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Designed by Howard Liddell, who founded Edinburgh-based Gaia Architects 30 years ago, it pioneered Gaia's use of 'breathing' or moisture-transfusive construction in Scotland (the equivalent of wearing breathable cotton clothing next to your skin instead of plastic) and won UK House of the Year in 1993, the year after it was completed.

The specification also included high levels of cellulose insulation and used only benign structural and finishing materials. None of the timber was chemically treated, internally or externally, and all the original wall, floor and ceiling finishes were natural and non-toxic.Tressour Wood is heated by a combination of passive solar gain and a wood-burning stove – the innovative open-plan design allows heat to rise through the solar staircase atrium. Summer cooling is achieved via stack effect through the same atrium, with a vent at the roof apex.Now for sale, the owners have upgraded the interior and installed a new kitchen and bathroom, redecorated throughout and landscaped the garden. In addition to its green credentials, the unusual layout and different levels alone make this a house to covet. On the ground floor, the central wood-burning stove acts as a divide in the open-plan living/dining area, while the contemporary kitchen leads into a bespoke conservatory. There is also a utility room, cloakroom and pantry.The staircase, housed in a glass atrium, leads to a mezzanine seating area, while the first-floor houses a magnificent main bedroom with free-standing bathtub, a second bedroom, shower room and a landing large enough to incorporate a study area.The garden also features a woodland path. There are two decked verandas, while a bothy at the bottom of the garden could make a useful guest room, studio or barbecue area. This inspirational eco design classic is for sale with Smiths Gore in Edinburgh at offers over £335,000.

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