My neighbours, Alex and Martine, are undertaking a massive renovation project on their unlisted Georgian house. They are adding photovoltaic cells to produce electricity to the rear roof slopes and solar thermal panels for heating water.
A few judicious alterations made now could improve the eco credentials of your old house for next winter. Marianne Suhr investigates both the quick fixes and the long-term investments that will help reduce your carbon footprint.
Old buildings expert Marianne Suhr drops in on 500-year-old Picketts Cottage where the owners, Alan and Sarah Tierney, are determined to reduce their carbon footprint by installing green technology - in the form of a ground source heat pump - to provide heating and water.
Let it rain: For financial and ecological reasons it makes sense to have a rainwater butt for the watering of pots and flower beds. In her step-by-step guide, Helaine Clare plumps for a purpose-built oak butt to save up spare water and look the part.
Houses built with earth or ‘cob’ can last for centuries if properly maintained discovers Roger Hunt, as he considers the history of the vernacular technique and the current revival of interest in this eco-friendly method of construction. Plus a look at what cob is made of, how to repair cob and a handy glossary of cob-related terms.
Nothing adds atmosphere to your home as quickly as lighting a gorgeous scented candle. From fruit and florals, spices and teatime treats, we bring you a round up of the most delicious.
Oliver Heath is an expert in eco design and sustainable homes and lifestyles. He has written several books on the subject and shares his advice here in a special video on creating an eco-friendly bedroom that is healthy for you, your home and the planet.
Striking a chord Period buildings expert Marianne Suhr looks in on a new project to transform a 1940s wooden hut in a cottage garden into a timber-framed music studio. Plus find out more about the rules on converting garden structures.
Christina Hawkes, founder of Greenscents, manufacturers of natural cleaning products, talks about the company's approach to green matters and their use of fairtrade materials.
Eileen Holford of Wild Planet talks about her company's approach to eco matters. Wild Planet produce a range of organic and natural skin care, pampering and home fragrance products.
Maximising insulation properties or ‘U’ value of your building is crucial, but choosing natural alternatives lessens the environmental impact. Period buildings expert Marianne Suhr offers a quick guide to choosing eco insulation.
