The Invisible House

Working Together
As a result of a recommendation, JaK Studios appointed The FES Group for compliance advice on a cutting-edge, sustainable residential development nicknamed The Invisible House. The property is an innovative yet sensitive solution for a very small, problematic site in a conservation area in central London. The scheme proposed a sub terrain basement complete with sunken garden, a brickwork storey at street level to house the bedrooms. At first floor a high reflective glass ‘mirror box’ camouflages the living accommodation amongst its leafy surroundings. A roof terrace completes the scheme which provided a secluded space up in the trees. The house was designed with sustainability in mind with a ‘super insulated’ airtight structure aspiring to meet the zero carbon principles of ‘passivhaus’. The obvious challenges in terms of generating low target U values included large areas of floor to ceiling glazing and a non-traditional construction.

Why use The FES Group?
Cutting edge, ambitious developments require creative, well-informed solutions. With the help of our experienced team the property was designed to meet Code 5 specifications and a Grade A zero-carbon rating. Practical solutions included large 2.5kW PV array solar panels and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. We were able to achieve good target U values which are being met by the development.

The Results
This complex, private development has taken many years in the planning and development stages in order to satisfy the criteria of the owner and the local planning authority. Initial consultation began in 2013, works began in 2014 and The FES Group issued EPC Certification in 2018. Throughout this period our experienced team provided invaluable, consultative support to JaK Studios.

JaK Studios
JaK Studios is an award-winning RIBA chartered practice of architects and designers producing big ideas and progressive concepts.

Client Quote
“The FES Group were great to work with throughout, they understood our initial brief, responding with both ideas and solutions to help to achieve this unique project.”

Jacob Lowe – Partner

Highlights
Bespoke unit

Cutting-edge, high profile project in London