York Open Eco Homes: Victorian end terrace (Knavesmire area)

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!

Local architect Phil Bixby has eco-refurbished his Victorian end-terrace house, for which he won three of the prestigious 2024 York Design Awards. Phil has upgraded the existing structure to a high standard of insulation, including fitting triple-glazed sash-lookalike windows. He has also created two new single-storey extensions, each to Passivhaus standard and with green roofs. Attention to airtightness means whole-house mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) can work efficiently and provide clean fresh air. 

The resulting energy demand is sufficiently low to allow simple electric heating. A substantial photovoltaic solar array (including novel use of the south-facing gable wall) and battery storage mean the overall energy requirements are usually met by a mix of solar and off-peak electricity. Phil has plenty of information on how the home has performed over the years, which he’s happy to share - as you can see in this video.

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: Visitors are welcome to make use of the toilet if needed. Unfortunately, the home is not wheelchair accessible.

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.