The UK's first low-energy modern house made using straw, water and mud is on the market in Fakenham at a guide price of £600,000.
CobBauge House sits in an elevated position on the edge of town and is the UK's first domestic CobBauge building, created as part of a four-year EU-funded project aimed at developing more energy-efficient housing.
It was built by local builders Grocott & Murfit and designed by Hudson Architects.
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The walls are constructed from a combination of hemp straw, water, and earth - a traditional material mix known as cob - sourced from Setchey Quarry, Bilney Quarry and the Fakenham site. This building technique meets modern building regulations and ensures thermal insulation.
Selling agent Sowerbys said: “Earth is a natural, abundant resource that can be sourced locally from the site, resulting in low embodied carbon emissions. The construction offers long-life expectancy and utilises a simple, low-tech method. It boasts excellent fire performance and structural integrity, making it a reliable building option.”
The single-storey property’s breathable walls reduce the risk of natural erosion and promote healthier indoor air quality, removing pollutants from the air and preventing associated health effects.
Other energy-saving features include south-facing triple-glazed windows and an air source heat pump. The property also features a green roof, supporting biodiversity and compensating for the loss of green space.
Harry Thompson, Sowerbys land and new homes manager, said: “The Cob House project is an important step for the future of sustainable building practices.
“There is no doubt [the property] will become a solid local landmark, creating history here in Fakenham.
“Sowerbys is proud to bring this innovative property to market and looks forward to its impact on the future of sustainable housing.”
Inside, CobBauge House enjoys a modern, open-plan layout with underfloor heating throughout.
The spacious reception hall leads to the contemporary kitchen/family room with adjoining utility. This expansive area includes a SieMatic fitted kitchen with Konigstone worktops and upstands, Gaggenau ovens and a Bora X Pure hob and extractor fan, as well as integrated and freestanding Neff appliances.
Double doors in the living area open to an outdoor terrace overlooking the garden.
On the other side of the house, there are three bedrooms. The principal bedroom features fitted wardrobes and an en-suite shower room, while the other two bedrooms are served by a family bathroom.
Both this bathroom and the shower room are fitted with a bath, shower, WC, wash basin, heated towel rail and illuminated wall mirror.
CobBauge House’s outside space comprises a driveway with parking, an electric car charge point and landscaped gardens benefitting from a variety of planting, as well as a decking and lawned area to the rear aspect.
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Fakenham is a busy market town with a range of facilities and amenities, along with good road links to both King's Lynn and Norwich.
For more information, please contact Sowerbys.
PROPERTY FACTS
CobBauge House, Fakenham
Guide price: £600,000
Sowerbys, 01328 801534
sowerbys.com
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