An Artist’s Light-Filled Home in Wivenhoe

Artist Zoe Papadopoulou enlisted the help of okoHaus and VELFAC for the construction of her stunning contemporary home St John's House, in Wivenhoe village on the banks of the River Colne. What started as a brief from Zoe and an on-paper design by Paul Archer Design became an inspiring model of contemporary architecture that juxtaposes elegant black timber with a barrage of natural light thanks to the many VELFAC windows provided by okoHaus.

Turning Vision into Reality

The Wivenhoe home began as an idea from Zoe Papadopoulou of wanting a style of house that could hark back to the old boat-building sheds that were common in the area. However, Zoe wanted to add her own twist in the form of a lot of light.

When designing the house with her architect Emil Neumann, Zoe included two essential requirements for her home: light and height. As an artist, light is very important for Zoe Papadopoulou and every concept of the house had to include several windows that can illuminate the interior with the moonlight of Wivenhoe and provide maximum daylight. Zoe even intended on leaving the windows completely unadorned, to maximise light penetration.

With those requirements in mind, architect Emil Neumann had one nut to crack: finding the ideal windows that could achieve Zoe’s vision while providing thermal efficiency, a slim profile, and bespoke shapes at a cost-effective price. However, it did not take long for him to consider VELFAC, having used their windows for years and recognising that the clean design is exactly what Zoe Papadopoulou might need.

On the quality of VELFAC windows, this is what Emil Neumann had to say:

“We’ve used VELFAC windows for many years. Their clean, unfussy design suits our architectural style and they are at a realistic price point for customers.”

With the decision in mind, Emil contacted okoHaus for the distribution of the VELFAC V200E windows, as well as Rationel AuraPlus doors. Our expertise and premium product range ensured that the final design met both aesthetic and performance expectations.

Maximising Natural Light With VELFAC

The main challenge faced with this build was finding a way to maximise natural light while keeping the aesthetic appeal of the black timber home. Fortunately, the slim frame of the VELFAC windows increases the ratio of glass, allowing in 25% more light than standard windows, making it the ideal choice for Zoe’s vision. The windows were also placed carefully to ensure privacy.

Zoe’s vision for the house included a spacious rear area that opens wide onto the courtyard garden. To achieve this, okoHaus provided large-format Rationel AuraPlus doors to open up the high-vaulted space. However, the area needed more light from above, so large, fixed top-lights were positioned above the doors while VELUX rooflights provided even more light.

Another challenge of the rear of the house came in the form of a neighbouring house behind Zoe’s home that she did not want to overlook. To solve this, a large, round VELFAC window was installed high up in the bedroom wall. The window only provides a slight view of the tip of the neighbouring house’s roof while the rest of the view is of the beautiful Wivenhoe sky.

“It’s like a moving light installation. The round shape and ever-changing view create a beautiful focal point for the room,” said Zoe about her bedroom window.

Overcoming the Building Challenges

The first major challenge of the build itself was the presence of concrete slab and drainage that had already been laid by the previous owners 20 years before. However, the design of the black timber house was altered slightly to accommodate the existing slab with only a few minor adjustments. An unexpected benefit of this workaround was a reduced cost that ended up fitting better into Zoe’s budget.

Emil Neumann shares okoHaus’ philosophy of sustainability and this became an essential aspect of the building process.

“Sustainability was a significant factor in this build, and it was hugely satisfying to be able to use what was already there. It was also a satisfying architectural challenge to design something within the constraints of the form,” said Neumann.

Another major challenge later solved by VELFAC’s windows was the cold, damp air from the river in winter. Zoe needed pleasant temperatures in her house year-round and it was one of her biggest concerns initially for the timber-framed structure. Thankfully, the VELFAC 200 triple-glazed windows offer superb insulation, and with an air source heat pump and heat recovery ventilation system, the house is warm and energy efficient.

okoHaus’ Premium Supply and Installation Process

Throughout the build, okoHaus spared no expense providing the VELFAC windows and Rationel doors in a timely and organised manner. We worked closely with Emil Neumann, took the necessary measurements, and ensured a smooth installation process for the many windows needed to achieve the illuminating look of the house. We also provided the okoHaus guarantee of quick repairs and maintenance for any damages during the building process.

Full Client Satisfaction

Being an artist, Zoe’s attention to detail and satisfaction with the final build was of extreme importance. Thankfully, her vision came to life in a satisfactory manner. On the finished product, this is what she had to say:

“The combination of space, light and perfect temperature year-round makes it a very calming place to be. The large windows also make it easier to feel connected to the outside and I find myself going out for walks along the river whenever I can.”

“I wanted the things that it wasn’t possible to include in my London home.” Luckily, Zoe was more than pleased with the final results and found the perks she couldn’t have in her London home. Due to its architectural marvel, St John’s House has won and been shortlisted for a number of awards. It has also featured in The Times Homes & Property supplement.

okoHaus is proud to have been a part of this build and we aim to provide more door and window solutions for unique homes like St John’s House. For more information on our products and services and how you can accomplish similar results for new builds or renovations, contact us today.