The scheme was not conceived as an Eco project, but a change of direction mid-build shows how simple it is to upgrade existing housing stock for sustainable living. M T Wall Ltd had already started on site when the Family HA radically changed the specification to encompass a wide range of environmentally responsible features. M T Wall had no difficulty in achieving the radical change of specification, and the Family HA is now using the relatively simple measures adopted at the Eco-home to regenerate more of its properties for low-income families in the Birmingham area.

The Master Builder of the Year Awards, now in its seventh year, is organised by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the UK’s largest building trade association. These annual awards celebrate the outstanding work delivered by the vast majority of builders who can only be nominated by highly satisfied clients.

This year, the Awards attracted the highest ever number of entries, with some 1,500 companies nominated for an award, but M T Wall Ltd triumphed to win the national award in the Energy Efficiency category, which is supported by the Energy Saving Trust.

The energy saving measures include a wind turbine, which provides the house with electricity and allows for any surplus power to be sold back to the National Grid. All windows are double-glazed and the property is heated using a combination of solar power and an energy-efficient boiler. Additional insulation has been provided to the ground floor, internal walls and loft space. A sunpipe provides natural light to the first floor corridor and 50% of the light fittings are low energy. The shower and taps have water restrictors fitted and rainwater is collected in water butts.

Speaking at the Awards ceremony, FMB director general, Ian Davis said: “What makes these Awards different is the combination of exceptional professional skills and customer service demonstrated by the builders. To be considered for a Master Builder of the Year Award, the judges must see evidence of both. I’m happy to say that we found an abundance of projects that met these criteria. Our congratulations go to M T Wall Ltd for this well-deserved award, but equally our thanks go to Family Housing Association (Birmingham) who recognised their excellent work.”

Mike Wall and Ben Burnett of the Family HA, each win a luxury all inclusive weekend break for two at any of the UK Paramount Group of Hotels.

Master Builder of the Year 2006 is organised by the Federation of Master Builders in association with Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, and sponsored by American Express, Aon Ltd, B & CE Benefit Schemes, British Gypsum, CITB-ConstructionSkills, Energy Saving Trust, Envirowise, HBXL, Hewden, Hilti, Homebuilding and Renovating, K2 Conservatory Roof Systems, LABC, Paramount Group of Hotels, Professional Builder magazine, Sage (UK) Ltd, Screwfix Direct, Travis Perkins, and Master Builder magazine.