Earthwise Construction was appointed as principal contractor to carry out the construction of a certified Passive House new build in the village of Chew Magna, Somerset.

We worked alongside the client, who was also the architect, from the early stages of the design, providing them with cost consultancy to help refine the design. The build was broken up into defined packages, and we were appointed to carry out the main fit out works, after the off-site timber frame contractor had left the site.

The project featured in Passive House Plus Magazine’s Issue 30.

As the project was a certified Passive House, careful management was required to ensure the required levels of airtightness were achieved and robust thermal details adhered to. The nature of the client’s budget meant we always needed to find the most cost-effective solution without compromising on the performance or finish.

Wood fibre insulation was used for the insulation of the external walls with a breathable render finish. F.S.C Birch plywood was used for skirting boards with a shadow gap detail. A Passive House approved MVHR system was fitted by us.