did you know?

Paint

We love Scotland; the landscape, space, light and people. But it can be dark for quite a while. That’s why, historically, lots of timber cladding was painted.
Combined with the strong agricultural connections of Easthill, we felt that painting the timber cladding would achieve two important aims – providing a strong historical connection with the landscape and building type, while also being contemporary, fun and visually appealing. The challenge has been sourcing the right colours and tones. After more than 20 sample panels (and lots of debate with the design team, family and friends), we’ve decided on a series of colours for each home that meets these aims.
Come and see them in our lab.

Acoustics

Many of the living, kitchen and family room spaces are 1.5 storeys high, four metres from floor to ceiling, with feature timber ties. Stunning, light and airy? Yes. But there was the potential for uncomfortable echoes. That’s why we brought in Arup Acoustics - the same people who helped design Glyndebourne Opera House - to plan the acoustic treatment of these homes in close consultation with the design team.

Stone

After five tests, we still weren’t happy with the stone colour and texture. What could we do? We really wanted these homes to feel part of the rural landscape, so we managed to source over 900m2 of reclaimed random rubble stone to ensure Easthill is both authentic and honest to its setting and design.This recycling connects Easthill directly to the area; we’ve even kept some moss on the stones.
Our history – Scotland is a land of stone. We produce some of the world’s finest natural building stones. Part of the appeal of stone is the way its appearance responds to local weather and natural lighting conditions. From the sparkle of wet granite to the rich tones of red sandstone, the best of Scotland’s historic architecture demonstrates how to take advantage of each stones specific qualities.
Want a good read? (Yes, honestly). Try ‘Building with Scottish Stone’ from the National Stone Institute. ISBN 1-904320-02-3

Insulation and solar power

A home can lose up to half the heat you’ve paid for through poor insulation. So before thinking about high technology systems, let’s make sure heat is retained. And let’s try and do this in a sustainable way. That’s why we use warmcell insulation. Made from 100% recycled newspaper, it’s CFC and VOC (volatile organic compound) free. And it’s sprayed on to eliminate gaps and other ‘cold bridges’. If you want to know a bit more, visit: www.excelfibre.com
And did we mention the solar panels on each house? These supply your hot water, making for very high performing environmental houses. Good for the planet and good for you.