Savills Portugal

As the environment remains high on the agenda and energy prices rise, the sustainability of homes is increasingly a priority for buyers, renters and homeowners alike.

Much of the housing stock in the UK is among the oldest and least energy efficient in Europe, leaking both heat and carbon dioxide. While this a sobering thought, it has galvanised architects, engineers and interior designers across the country to pioneer sustainable solutions.

Energy Performance Certificates provide an indication of a home’s green credentials (those rated A to C are the most energy efficient), but there’s much more to the sustainable home story.

Historic homes are being retrofitted and new homes are being built with the environment and energy performance in mind. It’s a thoughtful process, with consideration given to everything from design and material selection to double glazing, insulation, low-energy appliances and lighting to eco-friendly features such as heat pumps, solar panels and green roofs.

Outside the home, attention is turning to electric vehicle charging points, harvesting rain water and creating rich habitats for wildlife.

From former warehouses and period conversions in the city to Grade II listed and Georgian country houses, here are some of the best sustainable homes currently on the market.