Super-insulated timber frame home

When Chris and Jenny Shepperd found their dream edge-ofvillage plot, they had clear ideas about the type of home they wanted. “We were keen to achieve something that would be low-cost to run, easy to maintain and comfortable to live in,” says Chris.

Having approached a number of timber frame suppliers, the couple selected Frame Technologies to take their project forward. They offered the energy performance we wanted at the right price point, along with being incredibly accommodating in their approach,” says Chris, who was particularly attracted to the company’s e ible options for thickness of frame and insulation levels. This made it easy to achieve the low U-values they wanted.

The project features Frame Technologies’ TechVantage S timber frame system. Managing director Simon Orrells and his team took the architects’ drawings and carefully engineered the structure to achieve the couple’s goals. Having worked with Simon on a previous project, the couple were confident he could deliver for them again. “He would pull out every

Above: Named Gryphon House, the Shepperds’ stone-clad timber home looks incredible while also delivering on functionality and performance

Top right: Frame Technologies engineered the superstructure to enable features such as the large open-plan kitchen/dining/ living space

Right: The statement cantilevered staircase is set against a curved wall, and leads up towards a double-height window, for an instant wowfactor moment stop to deliver on time, and paid incredible attention to detail,” says Chris. “There is a lot of value in that level of service.”

Once the footings were poured, the Frame Technologies timber frame was brought on site and erected in a matter of weeks. “It was so rewarding to see the frame go up,” says Jenny. “In an instant we went from a mess to a house.”

Chris and Jenny’s home benefits from connected internal spaces, cantilevered balconies and a feature curved staircase alongside e ceptional performance. The TechVantage S system delivers Passivhaus levels of insulation and airtightness, though the couple opted against paying for o cial certification. When the sun comes out, the house stays warm for the rest of the day,” says Chris. “It’s so cosy and comfortable.”