An eco house near Bicester was designed by a world expert on energy-efficient housing.

The Spinney in Middle Barton was built by Professor Mark Gorgolewski in 2001 and includes a roof made of recycled rubber and slate, timber cladding and many other green features.

James Cridland, of agents Chancellors said: “The Spinney is a beautifully presented eco-house which combines exceptional space with low running costs and carbon emissions.

“It offers a mix of large spaces, vast amounts of natural light but low running costs and low environmental impact.

“Many of the materials used are renewable or recycled, while others are designed for longevity such as the galvanised external gutters and cedarwood cladding. Even the sealed wall panels feature zero-ozone insulation.”

The living room includes oak flooring and doors opening to the garden plus there is a dining room/study and a kitchen/breakfast room with granite work surfaces, built-in appliances, a walk-in pantry, central island/breakfast bar and doors to the garden.

There is also a downstairs cloakroom and utility room.

A galleried landing leads to the master bedroom which has an en-suite shower room and there are four other double bedrooms, two of which have balconies and a family bathroom.

A 120-foot garden at the back of the house includes decking, a lawn and a small orchard.

There is also a shed, double garage and off-street parking.

Charity worker Deborah Hunt and her IT consultant husband Martin bought the house from Professor Gorgolewski seven years ago, after he moved to Canada to take up a professorship at the University of Toronto.

Mrs Hunt said: “We were looking for a period property but decided to go and see this house just to be nosey. We walked in and saw the gallery staircase and that was it. Literally, within the first few seconds, we knew we had to have it. It’s a lovely, light, airy but warm home and the energy bills are cheaper than friends’ houses of a similar size. It’s also incredibly low maintenance.”

The Spinney is on the market for a guide price of £695,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Chancellors on 01865 516161 or visit chancellors.co.uk