Get the greenhouse effect

Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud shares his eco-centric ideas

What a corker
"Cork flooring has come a long way since the '70s. Updated, stylish tiles for bathrooms and kitchens are cheap, practical, insulating and made from a sustainably farmed material. They're also available in a range of colours and patterns." Try Siestacorktiles.co.uk, prices from £11.73 per square metre.

Walk this way
"Carpet can provide extra insulation. Make sure it's good-quality knotted wool, as those made with flexible glue can release solvents into the atmosphere."

Shut up
"Research I've done with environmental engineers suggests timber shutters are as efficient as double glazing. They'll improve your home security, too. I've made my own from oak-veneered plywood." Try the Eco Shutter, prices on request, from Americanshutters.co.uk.

PHOTOGRAPHY: WRITER PICTURES ADDITIONAL WORDS: SARAH-JANE CORFIELD-SMITH, ANDREA CHILDS THE GRAND DESIGNS GREAT BRITISH REFURB CAMPAIGN, LED BY KEVIN MCLOUD, IS URGING THE GOVERNMENT TO DO MORE TO HELP PEOPLE PAY FOR ECO HOME REFURBISHMENTS. TO SIGN UP TO THE CAMPAIGN, A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN WWF, THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST, GRAND DESIGNS MAGAZINE AND THE UK GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL, VISIT GREATBRITISHREFURB.CO.UK

• 'A bedroom should be oh-so-stylish'
• Jo Wood recycled herself after Ronnie left

This article has 0 comments