Two years ago, I set out on a journey to build a modern, energy-efficient, and tech-enabled home. I live in Durham, North East UK, and I wanted to create a space that felt truly future-proof—comfortable, sustainable, and integrated with the latest technology. But, as with any ambitious project, there were plenty of lessons learned along the way.
Now that I’ve had time to settle in and experience the home in all seasons, I can confidently say what has worked brilliantly and what, in hindsight, could have been done differently. If you’re thinking of building a similar home, here’s an honest breakdown of what I’d keep and what I might change.
My modern home, UK
What Works Well
1. Energy Efficiency & Sustainability
One of my top priorities was making the house as energy-efficient as possible. Here’s what has worked:
- High-Performance Insulation: I went all in with internal wall insulation (IWI) and triple-glazed windows. The difference in heat retention is noticeable, and my heating bills have dropped significantly.
- Solar Panels with Battery Storage: I installed a 7kW solar PV system with a Tesla Powerwall. Even in the UK’s unpredictable weather, I generate and store enough electricity to cover most of my daily needs.
- Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP): It works well for heating and hot water, but it’s most efficient when paired with underfloor heating rather than traditional radiators.
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): This keeps the air fresh and reduces heat loss. The home stays well-ventilated without needing to open windows in winter.
2. Smart Home & Automation
Tech integration was a game-changer:
- Smart Heating Controls: I use Google Nest to control the temperature in different zones. The automation saves energy by adjusting heating based on occupancy.
- Lighting Automation: My home is fitted with Philips Hue smart lighting, allowing me to control everything via voice commands or schedules.
- Security & Monitoring: Smart locks, and CCTV have made home security effortless. I get instant notifications if someone approaches the house. I used Yell and despite a steep learning curve to install the system, I am really happy with it now.
- Smart Kitchen & Appliances: I was initially doubtful about smart fridges and ovens, but they’ve turned out to be surprisingly helpful. My oven can preheat through an app, and the fridge alerts me when I’m out of essentials. Samsung offers appliances that connect to Smart Apps, allowing me to do things like remotely start my washing machine an hour before I get home, so I can transfer the load to the dryer right away.
Smart home Alexa
3. Water & Waste Management
- Rainwater Harvesting: This system has reduced my water bills significantly, as I use harvested rainwater for flushing toilets and watering the garden.
- Grey water Recycling: A more advanced addition, but worth it. Shower and sink water is filtered and reused for toilet flushing, reducing water waste.
4. Connectivity & Future-Proofing
- Gigabit Fibre Internet (FTTP): A must-have. I installed full-fibre broadband, and the speed is excellent—perfect for streaming, remote work, and smart home integrations.
- EV Charging Point: I future-proofed the home by installing a 7kW EV charger. Even if I don’t use it daily, it adds resale value.
- Home Office Setup: I designed a dedicated workspace with soundproofing and ergonomic furniture, making remote work more productive.
What Could Be Improved
1. Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) Challenges
While my ASHP performs well, I underestimated the importance of larger radiators or underfloor heating to maximize efficiency. In colder months, the system sometimes struggles to keep up, requiring a backup heating source.
2. Smart Home Overcomplications
Not all smart home features are necessary. Some automations—like motion-sensing lights in every room—became annoying rather than helpful. I had to tweak settings to prevent lights from turning off while I was still in a room.
Power wall battery storage
3. Battery Storage Costs
The Power wall was a hefty investment, and while it does save money, the payback period is longer than I expected. A smaller or alternative battery might have been a more cost-effective option.
4. More Solar Panels Would Have Helped
If I had more roof space, I would have installed extra solar PV panels. On some cloudy days, my energy generation isn’t quite enough to be fully self-sufficient.
5. Modular Construction for Faster Build
Although I opted for a traditional build, I now see the benefits of modular construction. Companies like TopHat and ilke Homes offer prefabricated homes with high energy efficiency, and the build time is significantly shorter.
Final Thoughts
Overall, building my modern home was an exciting and worthwhile investment. I’ve significantly reduced my energy costs, increased comfort, and integrated smart technology that genuinely enhances daily life. If I were to do it again, I’d focus on better ASHP integration, a more cost-effective battery solution, and modular construction for speed and precision.
For anyone considering a similar project, my advice is to prioritize energy efficiency, avoid overcomplicating automation, and think long-term about ROI on high-tech investments. A future-proof home isn’t just about having the latest gadgets—it’s about creating a space that’s efficient, adaptable, and truly works for the way you live.
