Outbuildings

As with any project, it’s important to consider how to construct your new outbuilding in the most sustainable way possible. 

Below are some key areas which you might consider: 

• Location – if possible, you should choose a location that minimizes disruption to the surrounding environment. You should look to design landscaping that encourages biodiversity.  
• Building design – design the outbuilding to have natural ventilation and lighting where possible, using large windows and skylights. 
• Materials - choose sustainable, locally sourced materials. Where possible, opt to use materials with a low carbon footprint, such as reclaimed wood, recycled steel, and low-impact concrete alternatives. Where using wood, you can look for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood¹, to guarantee it has been sourced in a sustainable way. 
• Insulation - ensure walls, roof, and floors are properly insulated to reduce heat loss.

As always, it's important to consider how you can power your project sustainably, and to recycle and/or reuse project waste where possible.

Make sure you discuss sustainability and longevity with your builders and other tradespeople before starting work. Use our 'find a professional'² tool to find a trusted tradesperson for your project.

1. https://uk.fsc.org/
2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/find-a-trade-professional