Situated in the Dartmoor National Park, the Devon Eco House is conceived as a building that uses traditional materials of timber and stone and local craftsmanship to create a contemporary low energy dwelling.

The principle element is a series of large timber hoops that are propped on pads at a sub-basement level and then reversed to form an elliptical spine: a continuation of a woodland walk.  This structure is clearly expressed throughout all levels of the building.

 

The rear of the building faces south and sunlight is filtered through the elliptical corridor and so the building is seen to glow on approach.  Below ground spaces and services under crofts, realised in local materials help to create a rich and diverse structure within which the occupants can live and work. 

Outside at one end of the internal route is an energy generating structure with PV panels fixed to it and housing wood for fuel within.  At the other end of this axis is a bird hide to quietly watch the varied local wildlife.  And between sits the building.

PDF Project Worksheet

Devon Eco House