Nina’s House, in London - wins ‘Don’t Move, Improve! 2025’ Environmental Award
Expanded Cork Project
Nina's House, located in South Tottenham, London, is a residence that exemplifies an innovative approach to the sustainable renovation of urban buildings. The name of the house refers directly to the London-based firm Nina+Co, led by Nina Woodcroft, who was responsible for the transformation of this building.
Originally built in the 1970s as a parish house, the property was transformed by Nina+Co and ROAR Architects into a low-energy, fossil fuel-free family home. The project stands out for its extensive use of expanded cork, applied to both the exterior cladding and interior walls, giving the building a unique aesthetic and exceptional thermal performance.
But the impact of Nina's House goes beyond its technical qualities. As reported by The Guardian, the house has become a real magnet for curiosity and dialogue, attracting neighbours and passers-by who stop to touch the façade and ask about the material, striking up conversations with the owner. This human and community dimension shows how architecture can inspire not only those who live in it, but also those who come across it, awakening new ways of thinking about urban life.
“I chose to use cork for insulation because it is a perfect regenerative material, a true gift from nature. The minimalist and totally natural construction system was what attracted me the most, with lime-based mortar and no need for synthetic meshes. In addition, the result is visually appealing and very tactile.”
Insulation and Natural Aesthetics of the Amorim MD Facade®
Amorim MD Facade® was designed to offer a unique combination of technical performance and durability, combining thermal and acoustic insulation with a natural and organic aesthetic.
The cellular structure of cork not only ensures interior comfort and reduced energy consumption, but also resistance to extreme temperature variations and humidity.
Another unique feature of this project is its high level of fire safety, based on fireproofing tests carried out in Barcelona, where the panels obtained a B-s2-d0 fire resistance rating, complying with UK requirements.
In addition to their technical performance, the panels retain the original texture and colour of cork, creating a so-called ‘living facade’. This feature eliminates the need for additional finishes, reducing maintenance costs throughout the building's life cycle and giving it a unique and contemporary visual identity.
“The expanded cork agglomerate used in insulation has no added synthetic binders, making it a truly natural product with extremely useful properties.”
Dimensions and Finishes
Amorim MD Facade® panels measure 1000 x 500mm and are up to 200mm thick, adapting to different project requirements. They can be installed using adhesive or mechanical fasteners, allowing for versatile and efficient solutions.
To give architects and designers even more creative freedom, the panels can be supplied in a smooth finish or in six different patterns, allowing for the exploration of different textures and visual effects on façades.
Innovation and Recognition
The use of expanded cork as a central element of Nina's House reveals an innovative architectural approach that combines technical performance, design and environmental responsibility. This vision has already earned several international recognitions, including the ‘Don't Move, Improve! 2025 – Environmental Prize’ awarded by New London Architecture. The project was also selected for the prestigious RIBA London Awards 2025, which recognise architectural excellence and commitment to sustainability. This nomination places Nina's House among the most relevant works on the London architectural scene.
Credits
Location: London, United Kingdom | Year: 2025
Project: Nina+Co, with support from ROAR Architects
Interior Design: Nina+Co
Production of interior carpentry: Craftworks Productions
Coating and insulation: Amorim MDFacade®
Photography: French + Tye