Northampton-based Boost TA is developing a new generation of affordable single-family homes to help local authorities address the growing shortage of suitable housing for families, and seamlessly blend with existing housing stock.

Working with a North West manufacturer specialising in advanced Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) technology, Boost has created a design that combines the benefits of off-site construction with the quality, performance and appearance of a traditional home.

The innovative homes are being developed as permanent council-owned housing, providing local authorities with a cost-effective way to deliver high-quality family accommodation quickly while creating long-term assets for their communities at a time of extreme need.

Boost is currently in discussions with a number of local authorities about delivering the homes and is working towards achieving BOPAS(Build Offsite Property Assurance Scheme) accreditation, enabling the properties to be manufactured off-site as mortgageable homes.

Giles Donovan, co-founder of Boost TA, said: “Local authorities are facing almost unprecedented challenges in providing suitable, affordable homes for families, while traditional construction methods can be slow and costly.

“We set out to create a solution that delivers the speed and efficiency of modern methods of construction while providing homes that meet the standards, appearance and performance expected of today’s housing."

Faster delivery through advanced construction

Boost’s single-family homes use a Structural Insulated Panel(SIP) system, where the structural elements and insulation are incorporated into a single high-performance panel.

This approach allows key elements of the construction process to take place in a controlled factory environment, improving consistency, reducing waste and helping to accelerate delivery programmes.

By moving more of the construction process off-site, the system also helps reduce some of the challenges associated with traditional construction, including weather delays and pressure on skilled labour availability.

The SIP system creates a highly insulated building envelope, supporting excellent thermal performance and helping homes maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year.

The homes are designed to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) A rating, delivering significantly improved energy efficiency compared with much of the UK’s existing housing stock.

The properties will achieve a minimum U-value of 0.18W/m²K,helping to minimise heat loss and improve energy performance.

Zero energy bills for residents

A key feature of Boost’s single-family homes is their ability to provide residents with guaranteed zero energy bills through Octopus Energy’s Zero Bills tariff.

The tariff combines highly energy-efficient homes with renewable energy technology, including solar panels, a home battery and an air-source heat pump, all connected through Octopus Energy’s smart energy platform.

This means residents will pay nothing for their home energy for a guaranteed period of up to 10 years, helping provide greater financial security and protection from energy price volatility.

Giles said: “Energy affordability is becoming increasingly important, particularly for families who are already facing financial pressures.

“By combining high-performance construction with renewable technology and smart energy management, these homes can provide residents with the reassurance of zero energy bills, while helping councils deliver more sustainable housing.”

Designed to fit seamlessly into communities

Alongside their technical performance, Boost has placed significant emphasis on ensuring the homes integrate into the communities where they are located.

A diverse range of external finishes and cladding options will be available, enabling the properties to complement local architectural styles and blend naturally with existing streetscapes.

This means the homes can be adapted to suit different locations, ensuring they look and feel like permanent, high-quality housing rather than an alternative construction solution.

Giles added: “The appearance of these homes is just as important as their performance.

“Councils want housing solutions that enhance communities, and our designs mean that homes reflect the character of the local areas where they are built.”

Supporting councils with innovative housing delivery

Boost’s single-family homes form part of the company’s wider ambition to help local authorities deliver more affordable, sustainable housing through innovative approaches to design and construction.

By combining off-site UK manufacturing, energy-efficient technology and thoughtful design, Boost aims to give councils a faster and more cost-effective way to increase housing supply.

Giles said: “Our focus has always been on finding practical solutions to the housing challenges councils face.

“These homes bring together innovation, quality and value, helping local authorities deliver much-needed family housing quickly while creating homes that will serve communities for many years to come.”