How to choose heating and energy systems to fit tiny homes

If you’re planning to build or renovate and space is tight, Home of the Year 2021 winner Jennifer Sheahan has advice to offer

The underfloor heating at Jennifer's renovated artisan cottage means no radiators are required. Pictures: Moya Nolan

When inches are precious, spending them on such frippery as water boilers and gas heaters is deeply undesirable. My contractor, who had the patience of Job, worked wonders with my plumber and architect to somehow squeeze my heating system under the eaves of my dormer extension, thereby saving me as much space as possible. 

Through that process, I learned a lot about what kind of heating and energy systems fit best in small spaces. I’ve also looked into renewable solutions and newsflash, having a small home throws up some constraints in this area too.