Since we started Paper Igloo nearly 20 years ago, we’ve had the same ethos: our homes are forever. That’s down to the way they’re designed – with resilience, sustainability and thoughtfulness. But it’s not just the outcome that’s important. Creating your home should be a joyful, rewarding process and experience – with us, it is.
We believe in a holistic approach to sustainability. From using natural materials, to landscaping that protects and increases biodiversity – there are so many factors to creating genuinely sustainable and resilient architecture.
We design all of our new builds to the Passivhaus Standard – a practice that reduces energy demand and prioritises comfort. And we’ve crafted our own set of sustainability standards that we follow on every build.
In 2013, we bought a plot of land and started the process of designing and building our own dream home. The award-winning Passivhaus design is in a historical conservation village in central Scotland, and is an exemplar low-energy home. Plus, our cats love it.
Having gone through the process ourselves, we can relate to you – the client – at every step of the way. From finding the right plot and securing consents, all the way down to selecting the perfect light switch. We truly understand the importance of getting it right.
After nearly 20 years in business, and 15 years married, we’re well versed in the collaborative process. It’s our belief that everyone deserves to live in a beautiful, comfortable space that enriches their lives – that’s why we focus our efforts on designing homes, finding inspiration in our Scottish rural surroundings.
Mhairi is an expert in designing energy-efficient homes that are as comfortable as they are sustainable. A certified Passivhaus designer with PHPP Expert qualification, a RIAS Sustainability Accredited Architect, a Living Futures accredited professional, and a Section 6: Energy Assessor for domestic projects, she brings a deep understanding of how to create homes that reduce energy use and maximise comfort.
Whether you’re planning to build a low-energy home or need guidance on energy assessments, Mhairi’s expertise covers everything from hygrothermal analysis to the latest sustainability practices. Beyond her design work, she serves as the RIAS Stirling Chapter vice president and is an active member of the RIAS Sustainability Working Group, helping to shape the future of energy-efficient architecture.
As a specialist in client-focused, bespoke, and sustainable designs, Martin’s extensive time spent on-site has given him invaluable expertise in real-world detailing and construction. With both passion for and understanding of the Passivhaus standard, he makes sure every project is both energy-efficient and built to last.
Martin brings your vision to life through 3D modelling and rendering, providing in-house visualisations that let you see the designs before construction even begins. He also enhances the practice’s energy consultancy services by offering detailed calculations for U-values and condensation risk, making sure every aspect of your project meets the highest performance standards.