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News emerged this week about the latest in innovative eco-homes ? the conversion of a dilapidated Victorian water tower into a stylish and energy-efficient home, making the most of the latest in underfloor heating technology. The tower in Congleton was bought by architect Andy Critchlow for £100,000 in an auction, sight unseen, and was featured in a January episode of the Channel 4 programme The Restoration Man. The Grade II listed building had been officially decommissioned in 2001 and took 18 months to restore, with underfloor heating to make the most of its thermal mass in the form of 600mm-700mm solid brick walls and new energy-efficient insulation fitted in the form of an inner stud wall. Energy and hot water for the building was provided by two air source heat pumps fitted discreetly on the roof. Andy ended up with a slick, five-bedroomed, four-storey family home for him and girlfriend, Ferguson, with incredible views of the surrounding countryside from the top floor sun lounge.
