Sustainable architecture is all about minimising the carbon footprint of a project, and at Origin we have always taken our responsibility to this seriously. We aim to tread lightly, with respect for the site and the wider environment.

Everything – from choice of materials, transportation to site, and transparency of supply chain, to decisions around how to heat a home – has a consequence. All these elements contribute to the impact a project will have on the environment.

We understand the gravity of making the best decisions we can, and how seemingly small choices can be significant. For example, a green roof increases biodiversity, creating a microclimate for birds and insects but also reduces internal temperature in summer and insulates in winter. We will always design to current best practices and seek to understand the consequences of our decisions before we make them. The following are just some examples of these principles in use on our projects:

• All our homes are insulated in excess of building regulations, for excellent thermal performance.

• All our homes use ground or air source heat pumps, and most incorporate technologies to harness other renewable energy sources, such as MVHR systems or heating by solar passive means.

• We install solar power with batteries, to maximise energy capture and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

• We encourage green roof options where appropriate.

• We regularly work on completely off-grid buildings and encourage more clients to consider this option.

• We will always engage local trades where possible, bringing in specific craftspeople as needed.

• We take sourcing of materials seriously, checking supply chains and traceability.

• We will always seek to use local materials first, to minimise the carbon impact of transportation, which can be significant.

• We will choose authentic and natural materials such as stone, timber, zinc or clay, over those manufactured to appear so. 

• We always work with those who share our values and who also understand their responsibility towards the build process.