Something pretty exciting happened recently – The Times came to visit my home to see what we’ve been up to at Simple Space. As the founder, I’ve always believed that building sustainably shouldn’t mean emptying your bank account or settling for a cookie-cutter design. My family home in Oxfordshire, spanning 2,500 square feet, was my chance to prove it.

The journalists were particularly interested in how we managed to create a spacious five-bedroom house while keeping costs and environmental impact low. It all came down to smart choices and creative thinking.

Our house was built using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), a construction method that combines exceptional energy efficiency with strength. SIPs create a highly insulated envelope, keeping heating costs down and reducing environmental impact. They’re quick to assemble, making them ideal for projects of all sizes – from a family home to a garden office.

But what truly made our home unique was the approach to sourcing materials. The sliding doors? Reclaimed. The bathroom fittings? Upcycled. Every corner of the house tells a story of thoughtful design and sustainability.

We also embraced ground screws for the foundation. These are essentially giant screws that anchor the house securely to the ground, avoiding the need for excessive concrete. This not only saved time and money but significantly reduced the carbon footprint of the build.

What we’ve created isn’t just a home – it’s a statement. A statement that shows how sustainable design can meet the demands of real life, combining practicality with environmental responsibility.

At Simple Space, this approach defines every project we undertake. Whether it’s a creative studio, a garden retreat, or a full family home, we craft spaces designed to last while treading lightly on the planet.

The feature in The Times was a proud moment for us, but more importantly, it’s a chance to share our philosophy. Building your dream space – big or small – doesn’t have to cost the earth, figuratively or literally.

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If you’d like to know more about creating your own space, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us here.