New Build Farm House, Fife

The new build farm house is designed as an elegant, energy-efficient sustainable home that provides the owners with a house for life as they transition toward retirement.

This new build farmhouse in rural Fife is designed as an elegant, energy-efficient, and sustainable home that provides the owners with a comfortable living space as they transition towards retirement.

The house is constructed using a prefabricated timber frame system with a slate roof, white render facade, and sustainably sourced timber cladding. Materials are locally sourced wherever possible, reducing the carbon footprint of the construction process.

Timber is a renewable resource that can be replenished through careful forest management. It has a significantly lower carbon footprint than non-renewable materials like concrete and steel, as trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, and this carbon remains locked in the timber. In fact, one cubic meter of timber can store up to one tonne of carbon dioxide.

Timber is also a lightweight material, making it easier and more cost-effective to transport and handle on-site, further reducing the environmental impact of the construction process.

Renewable energy sources are seamlessly integrated into the home’s design. Solar panels on the roof provide electricity, while an air source heat pump (ASHP) supplies heating and hot water. A biodigester treatment plant and surface water SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems) help manage wastewater and surface water, ensuring the home is self-sufficient and environmentally friendly.

The floor plan is designed for comfort and functionality, with an open-plan kitchen, dining, and lounge area that maximizes views of the surrounding countryside. The master bedroom features an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, while two additional double bedrooms and a family bathroom with a separate shower and bath are also provided.

A covered porch, utility/mudroom, visitors’ bathroom/cloakroom, and a small office area are included, along with a self-contained annexe attached to the main house, providing a separate entrance and shared utility facilities.