A Grand Designs `smart’ eco home that responds to body heat and the changing weather.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Grand Designs eco home in East London, with a bespoke rooflight created by Suffolk company SunsquareThe Grand Designs eco home in East London, with a bespoke rooflight created by Suffolk company Sunsquare (Image: Archant)

The eco home in East London, which featured on Grand Designs which aired on television this week, was the realisation of Joe and Lina’s dream to create a home for themselves to the highest standards, in a limited space in the city.

And they asked Sunsquare, a multi award-winning Suffolk company to jointly design, manufacture and install an entirely bespoke rooflight to make this possible.

The rooflight, made of aluminium and engineered timber, is quadruple glazed and covers the entire width of the house.

It floods the interior with natural light and, thanks to an electronic opening facility, also creates a roof terrace above the two-bedroom home.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Grand Designs eco home in East London, with a bespoke rooflight created by Suffolk company SunsquareThe Grand Designs eco home in East London, with a bespoke rooflight created by Suffolk company Sunsquare (Image: Archant)

James Boughton, joint owner of Sunsquare, said: “The aim was to build a completely carbon neutral home and it’s been so successful that eight light bulbs can heat the whole house.

“Because of this, the house is designed to automatically adjust to accommodate additional body heat and weather fluctuations.

“Our rooflight helps to make this possible. Its design was a collaborative effort between ourselves and Joe, the owner, and we are delighted that it was featured on Grand Designs for its sheer innovation.

“This is a truly remarkable and fascinating home and it was a privilege to be a part of bringing it to fruition.”

Joe Stuart, owner, said: “Working with James and the team at Sunsquare allowed me to investigate ideas for the project further.

“When we found hurdles along the way, the collaborative thinking really helped to overcome them. James was very open to suggestions and my desires, while also complementing them with some solid knowledge and experience. This was a project testament to thinking bigger and I am sure that I will be working with him in the future on the next project! We are thrilled with the outcome.”