The living room
We do most of our day to day living in the extension at the rear of the house. The front room is a quieter space for curling up on the sofa with the baby to watch tv and videos, listen to music, or read a book. We can even play a '78 on the wind up record player if we want a truly low energy day! Almost all the furniture is second hand.

The large window, like all the new windows in the house, is framed in plantation pine with high performance double glazing. Horizontal venetian blinds are the best option for providing privacy whilst allowing afternoon sun to flood into the room.

The wall behind the radiator is insulated with aluminium foil. As a rare treat in really cold weather we load up the old burner with timber from the demolition and garden waste.

The space under the stairs has been turned into a cold store with a vent to the passageway. We use it to store wine and beer, preserves and pickles, and bulk purchased organic food.

The floor has been sanded, stained and sealed. All gaps between the floor boards have been meticulously sealed with mastic to prevent draughts. The floor is insulated underneath with mineral wool hung between the joists.

Environmental paint is used throughout the room.