Higher Brea, Cornwall

A Modern Timber Frame Solution for a Six-Home Private Development

Located in the scenic landscape of Cornwall, Higher Brea is a private development of six new semi-detached homes, each built to deliver strong thermal performance and a clean, contemporary structural aesthetic.
Eco Space was appointed to design and supply the full timber frame package, incorporating high-performance insulation and engineered timber components throughout

Six New Semi-Detached Homes for a Private Developer

The project required a structural system that balanced efficiency, build speed, and long-term performance. Eco Space’s prefabricated timber frame solution provided the ideal platform, ensuring each property was delivered with consistent accuracy and tight programme control.

By manufacturing core components off-site, Eco Space helped the developer reduce waste, minimise disruption, and maintain predictable build quality across all six dwellings.

Actis Insulation Used Throughout

To achieve a warm, energy-efficient envelope, Actis insulation systems were integrated across the complete build-up. This included:

multifoil insulation in roof zones
hybrid insulation within panel systems
layered thermal detailing to reduce cold bridging

Actis products offered the high thermal performance required while keeping build-ups slim and efficient — an ideal match for contemporary private housing.

Glulam Beams Replacing Traditional Steelwork

Instead of relying on conventional steel beams, the project adopted glulam (glued laminated timber) beams as the primary structural solution for long spans and open-plan areas.

This approach offered several advantages:

reduced embodied carbon compared to steel
a cleaner structural aesthetic
easier integration with the wider timber frame
high load-bearing capacity and long-term durability

Using glulam also supported the developer’s desire for a more sustainable and cohesive timber-based structure.

Outcome

Higher Brea showcases Eco Space’s ability to deliver sustainable, high-performance private homes using modern timber engineering.
The combination of Actis insulation, glulam structural components, and precision-manufactured timber frame panels resulted in a development that is warm, efficient, and built to a consistently high standard.

The project highlights Eco Space’s flexibility in adapting structural solutions to the developer’s goals — from sustainability to design efficiency — and reinforces their role in delivering premium timber-based residential schemes across the UK.