LIVING Structures highlights; new research published by the Energy Saving Trust (EST) states 'carbon appeal' may soon replace 'kerb appeal' when it comes to attracting buyers to a new home. Purchasing an eco home doesn’t have to mean compromising on style though - for example the new homes at Living Structures’ Rocky Lane development in St Agnes offer outstanding low carbon architecture in a unique and unspoilt environment.

The EST study, which surveyed 2,090 homeowners, revealed that 53 per cent of householders said they would be willing to pay extra - up to £3,350 extra - for a home with greener features. The homes at Rocky Lane combine sleek design with the highest standards of sustainability. Energy saving features includes super insulation, energy-efficient windows, air source heat pumps and passive ventilation. The timber frame construction has the lowest CO2 cost of any commercially available building material and all timber is from sustainable sources. The result is homes that are extremely thermally efficient surpassing current building requirements by 44%.

Simon Blackburn of Living Structures comments: “Rocky Lane is a fusion of architecture that embraces new ideas and regenerative technology. In the current economic climate, it makes sense to ensure that the running costs of the home you are buying are as low as possible as well as helping to cut down on your carbon dioxide emissions.”

Set amongst 3.5 acres of woodland, Rocky Lane consists of ten single detached units, ranging in size from nearly 1000 to 2000 square feet. Great care has been taken to ensure the survival of as many of the existing mature trees as possible and the final effect of the development will be greatly enhanced by the preservation of this natural resource.

The design of the development is intended to respect and enhance the essential nature of the site: a woodland area of finite and limited size, especially rare in this part of Cornwall. Each property has at least one sheltered and private outdoor living space in the form of elevated decks and roof terraces which are ideal to enjoy al fresco dining in the tranquil natural environment.

Inside the homes, flexible and open-plan living areas are designed to maximize useable space while floor to ceiling windows make the most of natural light and the outstanding views. They are finished with great attention to detail and luxury specification, for example intelligently designed kitchens feature high-gloss units with stone worktops and integrated “A” rated Neff appliances. Bathrooms feature Porcelanosa suites, tiling and heated towel rails. Underfloor heating, broadband connectivity and engineered wood flooring in reception areas comes as standard, and for extra cosiness, the living rooms come complete with wood-burning stove. Safety and security has been taken into consideration, with the inclusion of a fire prevention sprinkler system and a well-lit car park with CCTV coverage.

Rocky Lane is being developed as a joint venture between Living Structures UK and The Point Cornwall, designed by architectural practice Turkel Design.

Prices range from £295,000 for a one-bedroom (900 sq ft) house to £625,000 for a four-bedroom (1,700 sq ft) house and are exempt from stamp duty.

For further sales information, please call: 08448 805 709 or email: enquiries@rockylanecornwall.com or visit: www.rockylanecornwall.com