York Open Eco Homes: 2014 detached house (Strensall)

Visit a home that is better for people and the planet: more comfortable, with lower energy bills and carbon emissions. Learn from the host's experiences and find inspiration for your own home. Please see this page for the list of all homes participating in this annual event - you're welcome to visit more than one!

This modern home on a David Wilson house estate was already comfortable to live in and fairly energy efficient when the hosts bought it. Their primary motivation for upgrading anything was to do something about climate change. The first step was switching to an electric car in 2020, which has proven very successful. Going fully electric at home so it could be disconnected from gas seemed the logical next step. Heat pump and electric cooking followed in early 2026. Solar PV panels and domestic battery finished the upgrade process in the summer.

The home is now even more comfortable as it keeps at more even temperatures all year round. The hosts also enjoy the sense of control from generating enough to cover at least half of their energy needs and buying the rest at the best possible rate.

Booking is essential - you will be asked to choose a tour slot and receive the full home address later. Each tour will last between 30-60 minutes. If you're planning to visit other homes on the same day, please consider how you will travel between them before booking. For more info please contact Ivana via ivana@yorkcommunityenergy.org.uk.

Free entry, booking is required via this page or by leaving a message on 01904 922781. 

Accessibility: although not purpose-built as such, the house is accessible for wheelchairs via a wide patio door (as once tested by the hosts due to a broken limb!). Visitors are welcome to make use of the toilet if needed.

This year's event is part of the Home Upgrade Champions partnership project and York Environment Festival - check out the programme for 100+ free events between 3rd October - 1st November.

The Home Upgrade Champions project is a partnership between York Community Energy, University of York, Stockholm Environment Institute and Abundance Investment; supported by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and part-funded by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.