Scotland’s homes of the future are on their way, as the North East’s first Passivhaus development gets the green light
Five futuristic homes that will rely on the kettle and body heat for warmth have been approved in Scotland.
The Woodend of Glassel development will welcome ultra eco houses into private woodlands near Banchory, where red squirrels still wander between mature Scots pine and silver birch.
The project is North East Scotland’s first Passivhaus scheme, which slashes heating needs by around 79 percent compared with homes built to current Scottish building rules.
Specialist contractor Coldwells Build will create a mix of four and five bedroom properties that will capture heat from sunlight, everyday appliances and very high levels of insulation.
For buyers seeking a peaceful rural setting, the scheme presents an exciting opportunity to prioritise environmental impact without losing modern comforts and luxury.
“The first time I stood inside a Passivhaus, it felt different from any home I’d been in. It was quiet and comfortable, the air was fresh and the surfaces weren’t cold to the touch,” recalls Clare Booth, director of Coldwells Build, after visiting the property. “It costs very little to heat. At Woodend of Glassel, people can experience Passivhaus living for themselves.”
The sustainable homes are being designed by Glasgow based John Gilbert Architects, as Scotland prepares for a major shake-up of its building regulations.
It comes as the Scottish Government consults on guidance for a Scottish equivalent of the Passivhaus Standard, with guidance expected in 2027 and the new standard due to come into force from 2029.
“Scotland is about to raise the bar for every new home, so why wait?” asks Ross Booth, director of Coldwells Build. “Woodend of Glassel is being built to the standard the rest of the industry is heading towards. The people who live here will have homes that are ready for the future from day one.”
Coldwells Build worked with Ursula and Adrian George, who have owned the land for more than two decades, to bring the development forward.
“We wanted any development to respect what makes this setting so special, while creating high-quality homes that will serve people well for generations to come,” says Ursula. “We’re delighted to be working with Coldwells Build, offering homes that combine thoughtful design with exceptional energy efficiency.”
The four bedroom Davidson plot, with a completed turnkey build, starts from £695,000 and the five bedroom McKinley from £775,000. The plots will be sold by Woodend of Glassel Ltd and each house is constructed under a separate contract with Coldwells Build.
The price covers a finished home independently certified to Passivhaus, promising very low running costs and steady indoor comfort throughout the year.
