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The Prince’s Natural House

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Low tech, low carbon and low cost: a model designed for high-volume housebuilders.

The Princes House

Built in 2011, The Prince’s Natural House demonstrates how a traditional, low-tech, and low-carbon house can be achieved by housebuilders seeking to meet stringent carbon targets for new homes.

It’s a highly energy-efficient building with a traditional design.

Overview of The Prince’s Natural House

Designed by the Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, the house is constructed from natural materials. It comprises two separate units: one complete and one left unfinished.

It is built from natural materials including aerated clay block, lime-based renders and plasters, and insulation using compressed wood fibre and sheep wool. The thermally coherent shell delivers energy efficiency and good indoor air quality.

Simple and quick to build, it is designed to appeal to an increasingly eco-aware homebuyer.

Key features of The Prince’s Natural House

A simple structure which can be built with conventional skills, more quickly than traditional brick and block
Solid walls made from strong, lightweight clay blocks with external lime render, high levels of thermal insulation and lower embodied energy than conventional bricks
Wood fibre and sheep wool roof insulation
Natural, non-toxic materials for a healthier indoor environment
Passive ventilation system modulates airflow according to the local relative humidity levels
Materials sourced with view to maximising end of life recyclability – includes floors and windows made from FSC-certified timber and clay roof tiles
Organic garden featuring native wildflowers and grasses, fruiting shrubs and trees, herbs, vegetables and horticultural plants
Wood burning stove with gas boiler