A unique partnership between City Building, Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) and PRP Architects was formed to deliver the first energy-efficient, highly insulated prototype house in Glasgow.

The parties worked closely together at all times and were equally involved in ensuring the objectives of the project were met.

City Building was responsible for building the four prototype properties on the site of its Construction Skills Academy in Glasgow, utilising two different construction methods in order to determine the optimum combination of design and materials.

Glasgow City Council’s arms-length construction company now takes its place among the finalists in two categories at the Scottish Home Awards 2011, the industry’s flagship event which takes place next month in Edinburgh.

The Glasgow House project is in the running for the Environmental Excellence Award after members of the public, local authorities and potential developers recognised the project’s potential to reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions, and create a positive environmental legacy for Scotland from which other countries can take the lead.

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It is hoped that the Glasgow House concept will ultimately be rolled out on a larger scale with discussions already underway about potential development opportunities.

The Glasgow House prototypes incorporate high levels of insulation and air tightness, efficient heating systems, solar gain through the use of sun rooms and solar thermal panels. Tests have shown that they comfortably exceed both industry standards and project targets for both energy efficiency and air tightness.

City Building has also been nominated for Community Partnership of the Year after it teamed up with GHA, PRP Architects and a range of local stakeholders and suppliers, ensuring there was widespread community involvement during this unique project.

Due to its proximity to its Construction Skills Academy, local City Building apprentices were able to make a contribution to the project, while housing and community groups were invited to tour the buildings at various stages.

Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBi), one of Europe’s largest supported employment facilities, manufactured timber kits and furniture, while members of the public were invited to view the properties during Glasgow’s Doors Open Day in September 2010.

Willie Docherty, Managing Director of City Building, said: “I’m very proud of our organisation for being nominated in two award categories as the standard of entry is extremely high and competition is fierce. The Glasgow House project is a fantastic example of how organisations can work together to benefit the community and the potential benefits from this particular piece of work are huge.

“If we can realise our vision of rolling out these attractive, comfortable and energy-efficient homes in Glasgow and beyond, it will play a major part in helping Scotland to meet its carbon reduction targets. By changing the way we approach housebuilding, Scotland can look forward to an environmentally friendly future.”

(GK)