Create a 'house of the rising sun'

Homeowners that are embarking on a full-scale propertyrenovation should take into consideration the weather and the environment, it has been suggested.

Willson and Bell Architects said that people should think about "where the sun comes from" and "where it sets" when planning the renovation and the same could apply to those considering a self buildproperty.

Renovators are also told to consider "where the wind is, where the rain comes from all through the seasons so that the building becomes more involved with the environment, society and you".

In terms of creating a greener home, Nick Willson from Willson and Bell Architects advised that smaller rooms can make a home a "lot greener" and easier to heat, while "simple" measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation will save money and help the environment.

The Energy Savings Trust has said that homeowners renovating a property could save almost £300 a year by making it more energy efficient.