In a showcase of community collaboration and environmental consciousness, Green Open Homes BANES 2023 has concluded, leaving a trail of inspiration and valuable insights on sustainable living. The Open Homes showcased energy saving measures and retrofit options, and inspired visitors on their own eco-friendly journeys. With 788 visits recorded, this event has proven that when local organisations come together with a shared vision, the impact can be truly transformative.
The event had seen a 10-year hiatus but was resurrected by the convening of interested parties carried out by the Climate and Nature strand of the Future Ambition Board. By bringing together support from Buro Happold, Transition Bath, Bath Preservation Trust and Bath and North East Somerset Council, along with generous sponsorship from the University of Bath Architecture and Civil Engineering Department, Good Energy and Mitchell & Dickinson and funding from the South West Net Zero Hub, the Climate and Nature team was able to work with Bath & West Community Energy to bring the event back with a bang.
Over the course of the event 22 homes were opened by their owners for visitors to tour. There were 788 visits recorded, and visitors were supported by 46 volunteers. A huge amount of preparation by the partners went into the project, from the development of case studies available in the homes for visitors to learn from, through to the creation of hundreds of metres of bunting!
Visitors to the Open Homes were able to hear about suppliers, energy-efficient solutions, innovative eco-design and friendly practices ranging from the more modest secondary glazing tips to air pumps and solar panels.
Dr Lyn Barham, who opened her home in Odd Down, told us: “I enjoyed sharing energy-saving tips with visitors, including advice on reducing food miles and packaging by using local food”.
Stephen, opening his home in Larkhall, said “It’s been a long journey for us to make our home more efficient, with years of learning. We did it because it’s the right thing to do, and if it reduces costs in the long term, that’s a plus; we certainly enjoyed sharing what we’ve done with visitors. We had so many great conversations”.
Speaking about the event, Claire Smith of Buro Happold said: “This is the first of a number of Open Homes events that will be run in B&NES communities. We are keen to run a number of events over the coming year in the towns and villages around Bath as well as another event in the city itself. We would love to hear from local community groups wanting to run an open homes event, or those want more information on opening their home or sponsoring an event. Please do get in touch with the team.”
Catherine Adams, from Bath & West Community Energy who project managed the event, said “This is the start of something bigger as we share and learn how to save more energy together. We’d love your help”.
Cllr Sarah Warren, from Bath & North East Somerset, a partner in the project, said “It was great to visit the Open Homes and get some of my own energy questions answered. What struck me was that how well it is possible to manage our energy use now, with new technology that can help us use power when it is cheap and low carbon”.