Floorplans for a Three-Bed Curved Self Build Designed to Maximise Daylight

Nathan and Kelly Davis designed and self built Curve House in response to both the tight site and Kelly’s loss of vision, making light a top priority. “We didn’t set out to make a statement piece, but wanted something that was true to the landscape,” explains Nathan, co-founder of sustainable architecture practice ARCO2. “The site demanded a building that curved and flowed with it, not something boxy or abrupt.”

Reinforced edge-thickened foundations and curved blockwork walls form the base of the house, with softwood timber frame above. Nathan used 3D modelling software to work out the geometry and created full-scale templates for critical sections. “There’s nowhere to hide with curves. Everything needed to be precise to achieve the shapes, and getting the roof right was the most challenging part,” he says. Hard-wearing, low-maintenance materials were chosen, with a natural slate curved roof and a zinc standing seam roof to house the solar panels.

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From the beginning, environmental performance was as important as aesthetics. The house has been super-insulated using sheep wool and recycled newspaper insulation, with airtight detailing to minimise heat loss.

Aluminium-clad triple-glazed timber windows, the air source heat pump, solar PV panels and rainwater harvesting system all contribute to low running costs. The design incorporates extensive glazing, optimising solar gain through expanses of triple-glazed windows.

Curve House won Best Eco Home at the 2025 Build It Awards.