lincolnshire executive

	images courtesy of Gusto Homes

The gusto Jupiter is one of a range of sustainable homes built by Steff Wright and his leading-edge construction company. The house is super-insulated and optimises the use of solar and other sustainable technologies, including rainwater harvesting.

The main heating system uses solar power to augment the gas-fired condensing boiler. Underfloor heating is used on the ground floor to maximise the opportunity to use solar heat. Solar energy is also used to supply about half the annual hot water need. Low energy lighting and appliances are standard, and light pipes are used where possible to minimise the need for artificial light at all.

The design maximises passive solar gain through south-facing windows, and insulation is made from recycled newspaper. The house has an air management and ventilation system with heat recovery, and zoned heating controls allow independent control of the upper and lower floors.

The most recent gusto homes also incorporate solar electricity generation, using solar PV tiles on south facing roofs. They demonstrate that a high quality lifestyle and sustainable living are not only compatible, but economically achievable on a large scale today.