Fernlea – Passivhaus New Build

Set on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Fernlea is an ambitious newbuild timber-framed Passivhaus project. Much of the house has been carefully embedded into the hillside, minimising its visual impact, whilst expansive glazing to the front makes the most of the spectacular views of the surrounding fields and distant hills. Despite being partially subterranean, the aim internally was to create an open-plan living space, well lit by natural light.

Achieving this vision presented a significant technical challenge: reconciling large structural spans and extensive glazing with the stringent performance requirements of Passivhaus. Through an iterative design process, the architectural team at Studio Gedye and our in-house design team worked collaboratively to develop a buildable solution that maintained continuity of the airtight layer while remaining true to the architectural intent.

Arfon Timber Frames were responsible for the manufacture and erection of the above ground structural components, delivering 96 prefabricated wall and roof panels, including parapet walls. These were erected in just five days in collaboration with Buckley Cranes, enabling the project to reach a rapid weathertight stage.

The wall and roof panels were insulated with Steico Zell blown cellulose, with panel depths reaching 400mm and achieving fabric-only U-values below 0.11 W/m²K. Particular attention was given to airtightness detailing throughout, ensuring robust performance across the building envelope despite its complex form.

The u- shaped design is inspired by the Iberian tradition of placing a sheltered courtyard at the heart of the home. Internally, a central open-plan living space is flanked by two bedroom wings for the owners and guests. These frame the sheltered courtyard, accessed through full-height glazing, creating an outdoor living space that is protected from the exposed conditions typical of the site. Beneath the courtyard, a full-height basement accommodates a wine cellar and gym, both naturally lit via rooflights.

Alongside high levels of insulation and airtightness, the building incorporates solar PV, battery storage and rainwater harvesting. The result is a low-energy home that combines rigorous Passivhaus performance with a carefully considered response to its landscape.