The Hytte, Northumberland, England

How does The Hytte minimise its impact on the environment and contribute to a sense of place?

The energy is sourced from EDF's renewable 'green' energy, with a ground source heat pump supplying the underfloor heating. There are also plans to install a 6kw wind turbine in the near future. All appliance are A-rated, walls and windows are well insulated, and all light bulbs are low energy, both inside and outside the cabin, while thermostats control heating in all areas. In fact, all energy consumption is monitored, with guests who use above 'average' electricity charged for excess units. This charge is then donated to Northumberland National Park Environment Association, Squirrel Action Group Gilsland and The Great North Air Ambulance. All taps are low flow, with a dual flush toilet in the shower room and a drip irrigation system to water the innovative green roof. The Hytte have also installed a Reed Bed to manage wastewater sensitively, while rainwater is collected to water the garden.

Glass, paper, aluminium, plastics, batteries and printer cartridges are all recycled, while garden waste is composted and used to enrich the soil and also mulch plants. All food waste is composted, either in bins or via the chickens, plus a food digester deals with waste cooked food and bones. Wood waste from construction has been used to build nest boxes and the 'bug hotel'. The herbs grown in the garden are free for guests, and there's plenty of info on offer about the local restaurants and tearooms. There's also lots of information on walking and cycling, with dry storage for bikes. Around 1000 native trees and shrubs have been planted in the area surrounding the cabin to encourage the growth of wildlife habitats.