Adrian James Architects Unveils Innovative Copper Bottom House Design in Oxford
Adrian James Architects, a local studio in Oxford, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking project that combines sustainability with innovative design. Named Copper Bottom, this two-storey house is a self-build project by the studio founder, Adrian James, for his family. Situated on a sloping wildflower meadow high on Harcourt Hill, this residence stands out with its unique features and eco-friendly elements.
A Vision for Sustainability
The driving force behind the design of Copper Bottom was a commitment to sustainability. Adrian James Architects aimed to create a home that not only met the needs of the family but also minimized its energy demand and showcased innovative design principles. The result is a four-bedroom house with a simple cuboid form and a sculptural copper carapace that not only protects the structure from the sun but also serves as a striking design element.
Adrian James, the visionary behind the project, shared, “The starting points were a compact form, a roof maximizing the southerly aspect for solar panels, and an envelope that shielded the windows from high sun. These primary moves laid the foundation for the design, which was then sculpted to create something unique and uplifting.”
Origami-Inspired Design
One of the defining features of Copper Bottom is its “origami-esque” shell. The angled roof plane cantilevers out like a peaked cap, strategically blocking out the high summer sun while allowing low winter rays to filter in through the large south-facing windows. Additionally, creased bulges on the east and west flanks create deep reveals for the windows, adding a dynamic element to the exterior.
Adrian James further elaborated on the design, stating, “There are subtle hints of something zoomorphic and something mechanistic, with paired ears and a prow. It is really about capturing a sense of dynamism in the form which puts a spring in your step.”
A Habitable Power Station
At the heart of the design philosophy for Copper Bottom was the concept of creating a habitable power station. The house is equipped with a massive array of 37 photovoltaic panels on the roof, angled towards the sun to harness maximum energy. This excess power not only meets the energy demands of the house but also offsets the embodied energy associated with its construction, making it a zero-carbon operation.
The superstructure of Copper Bottom was meticulously designed for airtightness, utilizing prefabricated timber panels clad with lightweight timber trusses supporting a plywood skin. An air-source heat pump further reduces the energy demand for water heating, contributing to the overall sustainability of the house.
Aesthetics and Functionality
Beyond its sustainability features, Copper Bottom also boasts a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. The interiors are kept light with white walls and minimal detailing, creating a sense of space and tranquility. A large feature wall made of textured stock brick adds warmth and tactility to the central double-height space, where a mezzanine home office overlooks the dining area and garden.
Large windows offer panoramic views of the rolling countryside and central Oxford, enhancing the connection between the indoors and outdoors. The choice of materials, such as stained oak flooring and joinery, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the interior spaces.
A Testimony to Innovation
Copper Bottom stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Adrian James Architects and their commitment to sustainable design. By pushing the boundaries of traditional architecture and embracing cutting-edge technologies, the studio has created a residence that not only meets the needs of the present but also paves the way for a more sustainable future.
In a world where environmental consciousness is paramount, Copper Bottom serves as a shining example of how design and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. As Adrian James puts it, “The intention is for the house to be a habitable power station – actually something we want all our designs to be.”
With its striking appearance, eco-friendly features, and thoughtful design elements, Copper Bottom is more than just a house—it’s a symbol of a brighter, greener future.
