PROJECT SPOTLIGHT - Willow House, Surrey

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Assessing Low Energy and Renewable Technologies for Cost Efficiency and Carbon Reduction

This high specification residence designed by Strom Architects for a private client is a replacement house on a large suburban site on a private estate in Oxshott, Surrey. The Mesh team assisted with a feasibility study to assess the suitability of low carbon technology and carried out building services design.


The existing property comprised of several disparate extensions and outbuildings and was environmentally inefficient and lacking in occupier comfort. The design brief was for a more coherent and energy-efficient contemporary family home with entertaining spaces.



Feasibility Study for Low Carbon Technology


This study compared a range of energy options and the running costs for each. The property was modelled using IES to gain a clear understanding of its heating and cooling requirements. A number of different options were assessed including air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and gas in different combinations for the house, pool and cooling.


A number of scenarios were modelled to give the client a clear understanding of the impact of technology specification on future energy costs.


Building Services Design


Our engineers assisted in the design of:


  • Ground source heat pump for space heating, cooling and swimming pool heating
  • Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery
  • Solar battery package
  • EV charging
  • Integration of the swimming pool into the services design
  • Hot water – gas calorifiers for hot water were specified that would allow multiple showers simultaneously
  • Underfloor heating.


We guided the client at each stage through different options for the building services to optimise operational cost efficiency whilst achieving lower carbon emissions.


We assessed a number of space heating options and utilised a pond in the grounds as a collector for the ground source heat pump.



Significant Carbon Reductions


The building services specification achieved an estimated reduction in carbon emissions of 6.6 tonnes annually when compared against a similar property without a ground source heat pump, MVHR or solar battery package.
 


Architectural Design


Finished in textured natural stone and porcelain cladding, the new property is portioned into different volumes to create visual interest. One cuboid block houses the shared spaces, and another is for the private accommodation. These are connected by a double height glazed entrance hall.


A swimming pool complex is located in the basement. A horizontal concrete plane bisects the house, tying elements, defining terrace spaces, and accommodating ancillary facilities below.

 

How we helped:


  • Renewable and low carbon technology feasibility study
  • Design stage SAP calculations
  • Dynamic thermal modelling
  • Heat loss calculations
  • Performance specification and design of key building services

 

Images - © Strom Architects / StriveCGI


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by Doug Johnson 9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a really challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping to ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
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