The Sussex Coast Colllege is constructing a low carbon test bed at the Ore Valley college campus, within there own realistic working environment. Ecotecture has been approached to aid the college through sponsorship of the project, we have provided this in the form of providing detailed drawings and specifications. Projects of this nature are of importance to us at Ecotecture. Building to low carbon standards must be a bottom up approach. The skill sets required to build very energy efficient homes must be integrated into the curriculum of all students learning trades within the construction industry.

We have developed the design to include two popular modern methods of construction. The two methods present difficulties for the students to overcome, and simulates real world construction problems. The use of super insulated timber frame at first floor and externally insulated thin-joint blockwork at ground means some interesting air-tightness problems. The assymetrical roof form ensures that once the building is complete the students will have had a chance to work with numerous materials and in varying complexity. We look forward to feedback on the lessons learnt from all parties on this project.

Sussex Coast college will be working with their French counterparts in delivering this building. This sharing of knowledge and experience can only be a good thing.