The design for the building was developed in the design studio at Lincoln School of Architecturein 2005/2006 led by Dr Sodagar who was also the Knowledge Base supervisor for the KIP. Theaim was to develop a 100% off grid Community Building with a minimised carbon-footprint.Therefore, the project has investigated the use of a diverse mix of low-carbon buildingtechniques. These include limecrete foundations, highly-insulated rammed-earth walling system,lightweight timber wall construction, renewable energy sources, water and waste managementand an innovative double timber reciprocal roof.The building is the recipient of prestigious awards including Lord Stafford Award for Innovationfor Sustainability (2009) and the Green Apple Award for the Built Environment and ArchitecturalHeritage (2009).