Studio 29 holistic approach to sustainability
With over two decades of experience, we have developed our holistic approach to sustainability. Integrating modern technologies with traditional design principles, we improve the building’s sustainability while preserving its architectural heritage.
In all our projects, we focus on:
Energy efficiency
Thermal upgrade
Use of renewable energy sources
Preservation and restoration of existing structures
Prioritise the use of reclaimed and locally sourced materials
Thoughtful selection of new materials
Sustainable garden design
Careful lighting design
Enhancement of natural light and ventilation
Preference for finishes that are durable and timeless to reduce the need for future replacements
Why does combining architecture and interior design result in more sustainable homes?
In combining architecture with interior design from the project's inception, we ensure:
Efficient space planning, avoiding unnecessary demolitions and over-development
Cohesive aesthetic and functional outcomes
Early consideration of sustainable strategies
No changes during construction (minimising waste of materials and energy)
Less need for “decoration”, which is often short-lived, and fashion-led.
Case Study: Norfolk Barn Conversion
Our Norfolk Barn Conversion exemplifies our commitment to blending sustainability with heritage preservation, resulting in a home that is both environmentally responsible and rich in character. Our approach combined the charm of traditional elements with cutting-edge technologies.
The barn, previously converted in the 1970s with little regard for its historical character and the environment, required a comprehensive restoration to enhance its sustainability while preserving its architectural essence.
Under floor heating powered by a ground source pump combined with two fireplaces provide flexible heating for a large holiday home used through all seasons. Photo Kasia Fiszer.
Key Sustainable Interventions:
Energy Efficiency: Installation of a ground-source heat pump complemented by two wood-burning fireplaces, providing flexible and eco-friendly heating options to a large weekend home.
Thermal Upgrades: Comprehensive insulation of roofs, walls, and floors to improve energy retention.
Glazing Enhancements: Replacement of single glazing with double-glazed units featuring thermal-coated glass and modern steel frames to minimise heat loss.
Shading: window dressing to modulate solar gain through the seasons and the times of the day.
Material Reuse: Utilisation of reclaimed materials, including floor bricks and roof pan tiles sourced from local reclamation yards, and reuse of existing stone and bricks where feasible.
Flood Mitigation: Implement anti-flood measures on the ground floor to protect against potential water ingress.
Repurpose of furniture and use of natural elements as decoration
Restoration of the original garden planted in the 70s with the addition of drought-proof planting and local endemic species
We designed a fireplace with an ethanol burner as we could not fit a flue in this room and we have recommended ethanol fireplace ever since for their envinronmental credential and ease of installation. Photo J Tarry
A Product We Love: Spacetherm High Performance Insulation
One of the key materials we have been relying on for more than 15 years is Spacetherm—a high-performance aerogel insulation panel.
Why we use it:
Ultra-Thin Profile:
Spacetherm’s ultra-slim design is ideal for retrofit projects, especially in period properties where space is at a premium. It allows us to significantly improve insulation without altering room dimensions or architectural details.
Exceptional Thermal Performance:
Despite its minimal thickness, it provides outstanding thermal resistance (low thermal conductivity), dramatically reducing heat loss through walls and helping clients save on energy bills.
Acoustic Benefits:
In addition to its thermal properties, Spacetherm contributes to acoustic insulation, creating quieter, more comfortable living environments.
Smooth, Seamless Finish:
Once installed, it provides a clean, smooth surface, ideal for painting, wallpapering, or direct installation of shelving and cabinetry.
Direct Application to Existing Walls:
One of Spacetherm’s major advantages is that it can be fixed directly to existing solid walls without timber battens or frameworks. This reduces construction time, labour costs, and disruption during the refurbishment process.
Clean Alternative: Ethanol Fireplaces
We now recommend ethanol burners versus gas burners for most of our fireplaces, as they are friendlier to the environment, safer and cheaper to install.
Ethanol burners differ from gas burners primarily in their fuel source and environmental impact. They use bioethanol, a renewable fuel derived from plant materials or food waste.
They produce minimal emissions—mainly water vapour and a small amount of CO₂— and do not need a flue or gas line, offering cleaner indoor air and greater installation flexibility.
A Traditional, Low-Tech Energy Saving Feature: Window Dressing
Sustainability is not only about cutting-edge technology, but also smart, low-tech design decisions that have stood the test of time. Thoughtful window dressing is a deceptively simple yet powerful strategy for improving energy performance.
Why Window Dressing Matters:
Winter Insulation
Summer Solar Control
Energy-Efficient and Reversible
This passive method requires no energy input, no structural changes, and can be adapted or removed with ease. It’s an ideal solution for both listed properties and rental homes.
Aesthetic Integration: adding beauty and functionality.