Energy-efficient homes that look great and cost less to run? Yes, please.
At JADE Windows, we’re passionate about building a better future — and that’s exactly what the team at R.P. Tyson Construction had in mind when they kicked off the Mill Lane Affordable Housing Development in Cumbria.
This wasn’t your typical new build project. Funded by Homes England and created for South Lakes Housing, this development features 20 homes designed to meet PassivHaus standards — one of the toughest energy-efficiency benchmarks in the world.
And yes, it was featured on Channel 4’s The Great Climate Fight with Kevin McCloud. (No big deal.)
So, what did JADE bring to the table? Read on to find out how our composite doors and high-performance windows helped shape one of the UK’s most eco-conscious communities.
The Mission: Affordable, Sustainable, and Built to Last
The goal at Mill Lane was clear: build high-quality, affordable homes that use as little energy as possible. That meant sourcing materials that were thermally efficient, low maintenance, and made to last.
That’s where we came in.
What We Supplied
We worked closely with R.P. Tyson Construction to supply and install:
🟢 Composite doors
✔️ Super-insulated cores to keep the heat in
✔️ Triple seals for airtight performance
✔️ Security features that meet PAS24:2016 standards
🟢 Large picture windows
✔️ Triple glazing for next-level insulation
✔️ Slimline frames to let in more natural light
✔️ Solar-control coatings to reduce glare and keep rooms comfy year-round
These weren’t just nice extras — they were essential to helping the homes meet the strict energy requirements of PassivHaus design.
Windows & Doors That Work Smarter
Let’s talk benefits. Our energy-efficient doors and windows helped Mill Lane:
✔️ Reduce energy bills for future residents
✔️ Cut carbon emissions (a big win for the planet!)
✔️ Maximise natural light and passive solar gain
✔️ Deliver a clean, modern look with serious performance behind it
And because these materials are built to last with very little maintenance, they’re a smart investment for the long haul.
Smooth Installation, Eco-Friendly Approach
Our team made sure everything ran smoothly on site. We worked hand-in-hand with the construction team and housing provider to keep the install efficient and eco-conscious — minimising waste and getting every detail right the first time.
National Recognition (and a Bit of TV Fame)
The project caught the eye of Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud, who featured it on Channel 4’s ‘The Great Climate Fight’. He called it a standout example of how the right building materials can help tackle climate change.
We’re proud to have played a role in something so meaningful — not just for the homeowners who’ll benefit from lower bills and warmer homes, but for the future of sustainable housing in the UK.
Final Thoughts
If you’re working on a sustainable housing project, or just want to improve the energy performance of your buildings, we’d love to help.
At JADE Windows, we specialise in energy-efficient composite doors and high-performance windows for homes, commercial spaces, and everything in between.
Want to build better? Get in touch today.
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