In recent years, the UK has experienced record-breaking temperatures and longer heatwaves – a trend that’s only expected to continue. For self-builders and homeowners, this brings new design challenges: how do you futureproof your home to remain cool and comfortable in summer, while still being energy-efficient and cosy in winter?
At Allan Corfield Architects, we specialise in designing low-energy homes that perform brilliantly all year round. In this article, we explore how clever design, the right materials, and appropriate technologies can help you adapt to the UK’s increasingly warm climate.
PRIORITISE PASSIVE COOLING IN DESIGN
The most effective way to keep a home cool is to stop it overheating in the first place. Passive design strategies are a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution, including:
- Orientation and layout: Position living areas to the north or east where they’ll receive less direct sun, and consider placing rooms that benefit from morning light (like bedrooms) to the east.
- Cross ventilation: Design your floor plan to allow for through-draughts. Opposing windows or vents can pull cool air in and push hot air out.
- Thermal mass: Materials like concrete or stone can absorb heat during the day and release it at night, moderating temperature swings.
SMARTER GLAZING CHOICES
Windows are crucial in controlling heat gain. Standard double-glazing can trap heat, so consider the following upgrades:
- Solar control glazing: These windows have coatings that reflect heat from the sun while still allowing natural light in.
- Triple glazing: Ideal for energy efficiency, but make sure it’s not oversized on south or west elevations unless properly shaded.
- Opening styles: High-level opening windows (clerestory or rooflights) can be used for ‘stack ventilation’ – allowing hot air to rise and escape.
EFFECTIVE SHADING STRATEGIES
Shading your home can drastically reduce internal temperatures without relying on energy-intensive cooling systems.
- Roof overhangs and brise-soleil: Designed to block the high summer sun while still allowing low winter sun to enter.
- External blinds or shutters: More effective than internal blinds as they prevent heat from ever reaching the glass.
- Pergolas and deciduous planting: A natural, attractive way to provide summer shading while allowing winter sun through bare branches.
MECHANICAL HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS
While design should always come first, mechanical systems can help maintain comfort:
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): Common in airtight, energy-efficient homes, MVHR can also include summer bypass modes to bring in cool night air.
- Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs): These systems offer both efficient heating in winter and reversible cooling in summer. If you’re installing one, check if it supports active cooling.
- Ceiling fans: An affordable and energy-efficient solution that works well in naturally ventilated homes
INSULATION AND AIRTIGHTNESS
A well-insulated and airtight home doesn’t just keep you warm – it helps regulate internal temperatures year-round. Key tips include:
- Avoid insulation gaps: Poorly installed insulation can create hotspots or cold bridges.
- Use breathable materials: Especially important in retrofit or traditional homes, breathable insulation like wood fibre or sheep’s wool can buffer moisture and help moderate summer heat.
LANDSCAPING FOR CLIMATE RESILIENCE
Outside your home, smart landscaping can offer comfort and protection:
- Green roofs and walls: These reduce solar gain on the building fabric and lower local air temperatures.
- Light-coloured surfaces: Reflect sunlight rather than absorb it – especially on roofs or patios.
- Tree planting: Trees provide shading, reduce wind speeds, and help manage rainwater during extreme weather.
Designing for overheating is no longer just a consideration for homes in southern Europe – it’s an essential part of self-building in the UK. By combining passive design principles with efficient mechanical systems and thoughtful material choices, homeowners can stay comfortable without relying heavily on air conditioning.
At Allan Corfield Architects, we can help you make informed choices that balance climate resilience with energy efficiency and great design. If you're planning a self-build or looking to retrofit your current home, get in touch – futureproofing starts today
