Our approach to sustainability

We are committed to creating homes with impressive green credentials.

There is a wide and complex range of options open to any self-builder who wants to develop a home that is ecological yet remains cost justifiable.

The consultants here at Benjamin Allen will help you explore innovative technologies and approaches that can reduce the impact your project has on the environment, without compromising its unique style or pushing the price of your dream home out of budget.

Sustainable design

Over the last few years, we have focused on improving the environmental performance of our homes, choosing to go above and beyond national standards where possible.

We match space requirements with real use demands to ensure no materials are wasted and your home’s carbon output remains low.
We always consider the local landscape and character of the surrounding area when bringing together our bespoke home designs.
We actively seek to minimise waste, energy use, transportation, and pollution during the build phase.
We design our properties so they can make full use of the sun, which improves their ability to capture and retain heat during the colder months (otherwise known as their solar gain).
We optimise our services layouts where possible for shorter pipe run lengths, reduced water wastage, and greater operational efficiency.
We favour enclosed wood burning stoves over open fires. When installed with well sited combustion air arrangements and insulated flues, stoves are an ideal source of secondary space
For our timber frames, we use high quality timber sourced from suppliers who ensure their custody systems are compliant with FSC and PEFC criteria.

Renewable energy initiatives

Exploring renewable alternatives in place of traditional energy sources is often a priority for our clients – and local authorities are increasingly keen to incorporate greener infrastructures into new builds, too.

To cater for the demands of all parties, we often install the latest sustainable energy systems within our projects, including green roofs, solar tubes, PV panels, rainwater harvesters, grey water tanks, air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps.