We’re excited to share that VESP Architects have designed and built a new Passivhaus-certified office in Ashburton, making it the first of its kind in South Devon. Over the past 19 years, they’ve earned a strong reputation across South Devon for progressive yet sensitive architectural designs. As their practice has continued to grow, the need for a larger, more permanent home has become clear, one that truly reflects their values.
What is a Passivhaus
Passivhaus (or Passive House) is a rigorous standard for energy-efficient buildings. It essentially requires the building to be so highly insulated, and so air tight, that it barely needs to be heated, even in the winter. Achieving full Passivhaus accreditation is rare in commercial architecture, but as certified Passivhaus designers VESP Architects welcomed the challenge. Utilising modern timber frame construction techniques, and ensuring good amounts of daylight without overheating allowed them to meet these highest levels of performance.
UK Hardwoods Materials
When VESP Architects set out to design their new office, every material decision carried weight. For the decorative timber elements, they turned to UK Hardwoods – choosing two forms of English Ash to meet the projects exacting performance and sustainability requirements.
Thermally Modified Ash formed the fins for the exterior of the building providing excellent protection as well as looking beautiful. Kiln-dried Ash was selected to create the stunning interior ceiling to create warmth and texture within.
A Centrepiece Born from the Forest Floor
VESP Architects also crafted a striking bespoke dining table for the office break room. They were able to use Kiln Dried Beech Blocks sourced from leftover material from us. Beech has long been a timber of choice for furniture makers who demand both durability and beauty, and in this application it earns every inch of that reputation.
Sustainable Choices
One of the most compelling aspects of this specification is its coherence across multiple dimensions of sustainability. The timber we supplied is British and grown in managed woodlands that support biodiversity and sustain rural economies. Our timber is processed with no chemical intervention, using heat sourced only from a solar farm. Compare this to the alternative: imported tropical hardwoods, which may travel thousands of miles and carry significant deforestation risk.
A Versatile Modern Timber
The project stands as a compelling demonstration of how thoughtfully sourced, carefully processed home-grown timber can sit at the heart of a high performance building without compromise. We’re excited to visit the team in their new space and can’t wait to help them with more projects in future.
