A Northumberland church transformation into a net-zero Passivhaus residential property potentially marks a global first.

Transformed Church in Northumberland Becomes World's First EnerPHit-Certified Home

In the picturesque village of Wark, near Hadrian's Wall and Hexham, a historical landmark has been given a modern twist. The Warksburn Old Church, originally built in 1875, has been transformed into an EnerPHit-certified home, setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency and comfort.

The £1million renovation, which took place between 2023 and 2024, was funded by Sir George Barclay Bruce, a pioneering engineer who was said to have first imagined renewable electricity. The project was undertaken by the architectural firm Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, who redesigned the church with a focus on maintaining its historical charm while achieving high-energy performance standards.

The church's EnerPHit retrofit resulted in a net-zero performance through on-site renewable energy generation and an extensive retrofit strategy. The airtightness test result was an impressive 0.19 ACH, far surpassing the EnerPHit standard requirement of 1 ACH and even exceeding the stringent Passivhaus classic target of 0.6 ACH.

The ground floor of the converted church features a craftsman-fitted kitchen, a dining area for eight, and a cosy lounge with infotainment. The bedrooms are connected to the first floor by a striking oak and glass staircase, with each unique bedroom boasting a porcelain-tiled en suite bathroom. The open-plan space retains the vibrant stained glass by Charles Eamer Kempe, adding a touch of history to the modern design.

Other amenities include a private garden, off-street parking with EV charge points, and ultrafast full-fibre internet. The property offers a holiday rental for up to six guests, with bookings set to open from September 24, 2024. A virtual tour of the conversion is available for viewing, providing a sneak peek into this unique holiday retreat.

Anne and Alan James, the owners of the church, have dedicated themselves to honoring the church's past while setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency and comfort. The transformation of the former Presbyterian church into an EnerPHit-certified home is a testament to their commitment and vision.

The Warksburn Old Church in Northumberland is believed to be the world's first church to be transformed into an EnerPHit-certified home. This historic renovation not only achieved a EnerPHit certification but also set a new benchmark for Passivhaus living, demonstrating that historic buildings can be beautifully restored while maintaining high energy efficiency standards.

A Northumberland church transformation into a net-zero Passivhaus residential property potentially marks a global first.