everybody else, but we do have the house we wanted.” Jane estimates the value of their new home, together with the neighbouring building they put up in 2010, is now £750,000 or more.


The couple have completed their self-build challenge, but Jane says she and her husband are still “basking in the sense of achievement”. She says: “I don’t think there’s a day that goes by when we don’t appreciate how much we love this house.”


Passivhaus living has delivered the comfortable environment the couple wanted – but its particularl benefi cial for aul. “Living in an airtight house like this we can keep the temperature indoors at about 21- 22° and means a much more comfortable environment for my husband,” says Jane. “In the bungalow we’d have to have the heating at a higher level because of the draughts and the impact that would have on Paul. There are no draughts now.”


Jane says she has no hesitation in urging people to consider taking on a self-build if they get the opportunity. “Of course, we have to give credit and thanks to everyone who helped. The level of detail in the work done by our contractor, for example, and the care taken in doing it was amazing – the quality of the build is just fantastic.” She adds: “We think the house is beautiful, but we’re biased, so when we have people, complete strangers, walk by and tell us they like the house too, it’s great to hear!”


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