

House Planning Help Podcast
Ben Adam-Smith
If you want to build a house, where would you start?
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 11, 2017 • 19min
HPH186 : Choosing windows for a Passivhaus home - function versus aesthetics
Ben and Kay Adam-Smith have a difference in opinion over which windows to specify for their new build Passivhaus home. While Ben is keen to minimise mullions, transoms and window frames, Kay believes this takes away from the aesthetics. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jul 26, 2017 • 27min
HPH185 : Why engaging in the planning process is so important
Ben Adam-Smith reviews what it took to be granted planning permission for his new Passivhaus home. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jul 14, 2017 • 36min
HPH184 : Balancing a self build with work and family life – with Donal O'Leary
Donal O’Leary tells us about his self-build in Ireland and shares advice for a successful project. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jul 4, 2017 • 24min
HPH183 : How to achieve an outstanding airtightness result
Buckinghamshire Passivhaus has become one of the most airtight buildings in the UK. As such, we consider what factors contributed towards their exceptional result of 0.08 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jun 22, 2017 • 24min
HPH182 : Extracting energy from watercourses by generating electricity and extracting heat – with Justin Broadbent from ISO Energy
Justin Broadbent from ISO Energy explains the options available for extracting energy from water on your plot of land. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jun 15, 2017 • 28min
HPH181 : Improving acoustics, noise control and soundproofing – with Jack Harvie-Clark
Jack Harvie-Clark from Apex Acoustics provides an overview of acoustics in the home. He also explains how we might go about controlling noises and soundproofing. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jun 8, 2017 • 26min
HPH180 : Where to live during your house build – with Ben Adam-Smith
Ben Adam-Smith runs through the main options of where to live while your new home is under construction. While there's potential to save a lot of money it should not impact significantly on your comfort, state of mind or key relationships. Check out the show notes for more information.

Jun 1, 2017 • 34min
HPH179 : How to deal with sewage for a self build home – with Cath Hassell
Cath Hassell from ech2o consultants explains why connecting to mains drainage is generally the best option for a new build home. She also runs through some alternatives if this is not possible. Check out the show notes for more information.

May 25, 2017 • 25min
HPH178 : Natural clay plaster wall finishes – with Clare Whitney from Clayworks
Clare Whitney from Clayworks explains how clay plasters are made, their applications and why we might choose them over other wall finishes. Check out the show notes for more information.

May 17, 2017 • 28min
HPH177 : Redeveloping a brown field site for a contemporary home – with Ruth Butler
Architect Ruth Butler shares the story of building a contemporary Passivhaus on an overlooked, brownfield site. Check out the show notes for more information.