A Remarkable Self-Build Journey in North Devon

Transforming a disused 1940s concrete water tower into a modern family home is not a project many people would take on.

For North Devon homeowner Robert Hunt, however, the challenge was exactly what made the project appealing.

"I found it just scrolling through Zoopla."

What started as an online property search soon became a four-year journey to transform a former water tower into a striking four-bedroom home with panoramic views across the Devon countryside and coastline.

Located near Higher Clovelly, the project combined ambitious architecture, modern building methods and renewable heating technology to create a truly unique family home.

The Vision

Unlike a conventional new-build property, Robert wanted to create something with genuine character.

"I always wanted to do something different."

The circular structure, elevated position and industrial history of the building presented an opportunity to create a home unlike anything else in the area However, converting a concrete water tower into a comfortable living space brought a unique set of challenges.

The property required a heating system capable of delivering consistent warmth throughout large open-plan areas while working efficiently alongside an air source heat pump.

Why Underfloor Heating Was the Natural Choice

From the earliest stages of the project, Robert knew underfloor heating would play a key role in the design.

"UFH was the only real option in my mind from day one. Given the shape and design of the interior and floor coverings along with energy source (air source, as no gas onsite) it's the perfect heating solution."

The combination of open living spaces, uninterrupted views and contemporary interior design meant traditional radiators would have compromised both the appearance and functionality of the home.

Underfloor heating offered several advantages:

  • Consistent heat distribution throughout the property
  • Improved energy efficiency when paired with an air source heat pump
  • No visible radiators affecting room layouts
  • Greater comfort underfoot
  • Low operating temperatures ideal for renewable heating systems

For a project where design and practicality needed to work together, underfloor heating provided the ideal solution.

The Challenge of Converting a Water Tower

While many self-build projects involve new construction, this project required the complete transformation of an existing industrial structure.

Robert had experience with general property improvements, but nothing on this scale.

"I had done the usual DIY things — kitchens, bathrooms and redecorating — but nothing like this."

The conversion involved creating entirely new living spaces within the concrete structure while introducing modern insulation, services and heating systems throughout.

Large open-plan areas, unique room shapes and the exposed location of the property all influenced the heating design requirements.

Every element of the underfloor heating system needed to be planned carefully to ensure long-term comfort and performance.

The Underfloor Heating Solution

To meet the demands of the project, an in-screed water underfloor heating system was selected.

Supplied by Uheat Underfloor Heating and installed by North Devon plumbing specialists Earth Inspired, the system was designed to provide efficient, even warmth throughout the property.

The system works alongside the home's air source heat pump, allowing the heating system to operate at lower water temperatures than traditional radiator systems while maintaining excellent comfort levels throughout the year.

This combination helps maximise efficiency while supporting the long-term sustainability goals of the project.

The Finished Result

Following four years of work, the former water tower has been transformed into a contemporary family home that combines architectural character with modern comfort.

The underfloor heating system now provides:

  • Consistent warmth throughout the property
  • Energy-efficient heating via renewable technology
  • Greater design freedom without radiators
  • Comfortable living spaces across every floor
  • A heating solution perfectly suited to the building's unique design

Most importantly, the heating system works quietly in the background, allowing the architecture and views to remain the focal point of the home.

Project Details

  • Type: 1940s concrete water tower
  • Location: North Devon, near Bideford & Bude
  • Bedrooms: 4
  • Acquisition: Purchased late 2019
  • Windows: Large fenestration to capture views
  • Heating: Uheat in-screed underfloor heating
  • Installer: Earth Inspired (Adam Cornish)
  • Energy Source: Air source heat pump (no gas onsite)

Planning a Self-Build, Conversion or Renovation Project?

Whether you're building a new home, converting an existing property or undertaking a specialist architectural project, our team can help design the right underfloor heating solution for your requirements.

We provide bespoke underfloor heating designs tailored to your property, heat source and floor construction, helping ensure maximum comfort, efficiency and long-term performance.

Get in touch today for a free underfloor heating design and quotation.

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