House Planning Help Podcast HPH385: A stunning contemporary home on a sloping site – with Kirsty Maguire
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Aug 26, 2025 Architect Kirsty Maguire takes listeners on her journey of designing a stunning Passivhaus on a steep sloping site in Newport-on-Tay, Scotland. She shares the trials of a 20-year search for the perfect plot and the unique design choices made in response to site challenges. Kirsty discusses construction techniques, including the use of timber framing and innovative insulation, while reflecting on the benefits of living in a Passivhaus. From comfort to community engagement, her insights are invaluable for aspiring self-builders.
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Balance Rooflights With Ventilation
- Use rooflights carefully: they admit daylight and enable stack ventilation but increase heat loss and summer solar gain.
- Monitor and provide ventilation strategies to avoid overheating while benefiting comfort.
Immediate Comfort Shock
- Kirsty found living in the passive house dramatically more comfortable than her previous cold, drafty flat.
- She and her colleague felt immediate comfort benefits when they first worked inside the new house.
Treat Your Project Like Client Work
- Assemble a trusted consultant team early and set aside protected time for your own project work.
- Treat your self-build like client work: use design rigor and realistic scheduling.