Vince and Johanne impressed by eco-home

Being able to heat their home for just 20 minutes a day, and reduced energy bills, are all part of everyday life for Vince Cripps and his partner Johanne Driscoll. They bought a four-storey eco-home at Barratt Northampton's NU@D2 in Upton, Northampton, and into an ethos based upon sustainable living.

Vince, a store manager for Next Plc, said: "Initially we were looking for three bedrooms, but once we saw the five bedroom Civano, in two hours we reserved. From bottom to top the layout is perfect - there's nothing we would change - it's as if you glide through the home."

Like all homes at NU@D2, the Civano has a range of eco-features. Vince enthuses: "We were keen on the ‘green' products and it was a big part of the decision to buy.

"Solar panels provide our hot water and PV panels installed on the roof terrace covering produce electricity.

"We only moved in during June this year (2008) and have already seen a reduction in energy bills. The home is so well insulated, we can turn on the heating once for just 20 minutes a day."

Savings on energy bills can also be made when Johanne, who works in retail, and Vince are away. Vince said: "The PV system enables us to sell unused electricity back to our supplier."

Savings on electricity bills are also because of the Civano's styling. "There's so much light from full-height glazing and Juliet balconies that on some days we don't need to turn lights on - the design is excellent."

One highlight for the couple is the top floor, which Vince says is "unreal". As well as a double bedroom, there is also an en suite shower room, and a roof terrace which "you can see for miles."

Properties on current release include two bedroom apartments and three and five bedroom homes. Prices range from £138,995 - £399,995.

For more information, log on to Barratthomes.co.uk/nud2.