Choosing Long‑Lasting, Eco‑Friendly Materials for Eco-Homes UK
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I have had these boots for over 15 years and they have come with me everwhere - a daily reminder that quality materials age gracefully and improve over time, our architecture must to the same.
Introduction: Eco-Home: High-Quality Construction Materials
Over fifteen years ago, a friend whose Godfather worked at Lokes introduced me to the enduring quality of leather boots. A pair of 1880 Lokes Bedales, acquired at a discount, not only proved to be a wise investment but also sparked a lifelong appreciation for durability and aesthetics in materials. A lesson I attempt to carry into the architecture and homes we design.
Longevity in Use
Contrary to expectations, these boots, which for the sake of the article are a metaphor for quality design and construction, have become more comfortable and visually appealing over time, surpassing more than a decade of wear as my primary footwear. This experience offers insights into material specification, especially relevant in the field of architecture.
The Monocoque Cabin has been designed to age gracefully over time, blending seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. The aspirations is after many years the cabin will look far more layered, electric and intriguing than when it was first built.
High-Quality Materials in Eco Homes
High-quality architecture has much to learn from enduring British brands like Loake—brands that understand the value of materials that age with grace rather than degrade with time. In architecture, as in craftsmanship, the longevity and beauty of a material are essential.
For us as a practice, timber has consistently stood out as a material that embodies these principles. It matures naturally, weathers elegantly, and settles into the landscape with quiet confidence. But it’s important to acknowledge that not all timber is created equal.
The world of wood is nuanced and complicated. Factors such as moisture content, durability, species type (hardwood vs softwood), treatment processes, and whether it’s solid or engineered—all play a critical role in performance, longevity and quality.
True sustainability lies not only in sourcing but in the thoughtful selection of materials that don’t demand constant replacement. It’s this long-view approach that underpins both great shoemaking and great architecture.
On the plus side, I have always felt that quality and durability are in the DNA of British manufacturing and design; Brompton, Barbour, Loakes etc.
Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Durability
Just as my boots require regular maintenance with cedar shoe trees and protective waxes, buildings, too, need ongoing care. Occasional repairs and treatments are essential to preserve functionality and aesthetics, ensuring longevity akin to well-kept leather boots.
Close-up details of the Laokes, the cracks have paternated over time as the matieral ages
Conclusion: A Call for Thoughtful Material Choices in Eco-Homes
This analogy between high-quality boots and Eco-Homes and architecture in general underscores the importance of choosing quality materials that age well and require manageable upkeep. For architects and clients alike, investing in the right materials can mean the difference between a structure that is temporarily adequate and one that becomes a lasting legacy.
We’re a Birmingham-based Architecture practice, we work across the country, and for the right project internationally.
If you care to work with natural materials and have a project in mind feel free to schedule a call with us by clicking the link below - or feel free to send me an email instead: peter@markosdesignworkhop.com
