Project Details
Overview
This study involved University of Plymouth master’s students (on the MSc Low Carbon Architectural Engineering degree) who helped to monitor the thermal and energy performance of the historic Hawkers Cottages (17th–18th century cob and stone vernacular buildings) in Cornwall during February to March 2025.
The investigation used non‑invasive methods including room temperature and humidity logging, thermography, in‑situ U‑value heat‑flux measurements, and attempted airtightness testing, the project evaluated how traditional materials such as cob and solid stone perform in real operating conditions.
The findings showed stable internal comfort (average ~18 °C, ~57% RH) and measured U‑values consistent with published literature, confirming the expected thermal behaviour of cob and stone construction, while also highlighting significant heat loss through windows and air leakage.
Overall, the research project provided both a technical assessment for the Landmark Trust and a hands‑on learning opportunity linking low‑carbon building theory with the complexities of conserving and improving historic buildings.
The investigation used non‑invasive methods including room temperature and humidity logging, thermography, in‑situ U‑value heat‑flux measurements, and attempted airtightness testing, the project evaluated how traditional materials such as cob and solid stone perform in real operating conditions.
The findings showed stable internal comfort (average ~18 °C, ~57% RH) and measured U‑values consistent with published literature, confirming the expected thermal behaviour of cob and stone construction, while also highlighting significant heat loss through windows and air leakage.
Overall, the research project provided both a technical assessment for the Landmark Trust and a hands‑on learning opportunity linking low‑carbon building theory with the complexities of conserving and improving historic buildings.
Project Aims
Assess the thermal performance of a traditional historic cob and stone cottage using in‑situ, non‑invasive monitoring methods.
Provide hands‑on learning for MSc Low Carbon Architectural Engineering students by applying classroom knowledge to a real, occupied historic building.
Evaluate the behaviour of vernacular materials (cob, stone, thatch) in comparison with published literature and modern performance expectations.
Introduce principles of sensitive, energy‑efficient refurbishment appropriate to listed and heritage buildings.
Collect empirical data on internal temperatures, relative humidity, heat loss, and air leakage to better understand comfort and performance.
Produce an evidence‑based monitoring report for the Landmark Trust to inform understanding and future stewardship of Hawkers Cottages.
Develop student skills in building performance measurement techniques, including thermography, heat‑flux measurements, and airtightness testing.
Provide hands‑on learning for MSc Low Carbon Architectural Engineering students by applying classroom knowledge to a real, occupied historic building.
Evaluate the behaviour of vernacular materials (cob, stone, thatch) in comparison with published literature and modern performance expectations.
Introduce principles of sensitive, energy‑efficient refurbishment appropriate to listed and heritage buildings.
Collect empirical data on internal temperatures, relative humidity, heat loss, and air leakage to better understand comfort and performance.
Produce an evidence‑based monitoring report for the Landmark Trust to inform understanding and future stewardship of Hawkers Cottages.
Develop student skills in building performance measurement techniques, including thermography, heat‑flux measurements, and airtightness testing.
| Status | Finished |
|---|---|
| Effective start/end date | 24/02/25 → 28/03/25 |