YORK residents are being offered a rare opportunity to see living examples of what homes of the future could look like and how old houses can be brought up to date.

The Homes for the Future free event, on May 19, will feature three Passivhauses – which are designed to use very little energy to heat.

York-based charity St Nicks, which is organising the event, said the UK is home to some of the least energy efficient housing and highest levels of unaffordable energy bills in Europe.

It said communities, developers and householders need to increase energy efficiency of both existing and new houses in order to make them more comfortable, affordable to run and cut the UK’s carbon emissions to boot. The open homes event will showcase local examples of what can be achieved.

York architect Phil Bixby has designed three local Passivhauses, which are comfortable, super-insulated, well ventilated and cheap to run. Each of the open homes is slightly different.

The architect’s own Victorian solid-walled house is also open to visitors. It is currently undergoing an intensive eco-refurbishment.

Also open on May 19 will be one of the largest straw bale buildings in Europe, York Eco Depot at Hazel Court, with many sustainable features on site.

Unlike the private homes, booking is not required to visit the depot between 2pm and 5pm on the day.

Anyone is welcome to visit the listed private homes under their own steam; booking is required in order to obtain the list of addresses and directions.

Alternatively, those wanting to visit all the open buildings and share energy-saving tips are invited to join Ivana Jakubkova for a low cost lunch or a free cycle ride on the same day for any non-beginner cyclists, starting from St Nicks Environment Centre, in Rawdon Avenue.

For more information and bookings, phone 01904 411821 or visit www.stnicks.org.uk.