I wanted to move into a smaller property and was lucky enough to be able to build on our present plot. I wanted this to be suitable for an elderly infirm person as well as a family.

I am trying to do what I can to look after our precious planet so I wanted it to be built as sustainably as possible but meeting my requirements.

It is built of Marnhull stone sourced from a quarry 3 miles away.

I have sheep’s wool for insulation where I can, internal walls upstairs and in the loft. My external walls have more insulation than required to meet the building materials.

I have underfloor heating, wooden flooring downstairs except where it is not practical; shower room, utility and conservatory area.

I am using wood where I can internally. I have a granite worksurface.

The house has an air source heat pump. There are solar panels as part of the roof and a storage battery. I have an MVHR system installed.

The garage will be constructed from wood. I will have solar panels as part of the garage roof and another battery.

I am having a 500L rain water harvesting tank connected to an irrigation system which will allow the beds to be watered at the most effective time and so reducing water usage. There are no power showers. There is a water softener to prolong the life of appliances and allow their more efficient use.

There will be a limestone patio. I will have a pollinating lawn and at the front a spring meadow as it is too shady for a summer one.