Many new build homes are simply built to statutory minimum standards such as the current building regulations. They end up needing more energy (and money) to run, they’re often less comfortable and they’re likely to have a more negative impact on the natural environment. In short, they miss out on the potential a high performance home can deliver.
What is a ‘high performance home’?
It’s a home that is energy efficient and generates its own energy, is designed for comfort, utilises sustainable materials and minimises its impact on the natural environment. A high performance home is both comfortable and sustainable.
What is sustainability?
The official definition of sustainability is ‘meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ or, put more simply, ’something is sustainable if you can keep on doing it for ever and ever’.
What is sustainable design?
Sustainable design, or eco design, seeks to minimise the negative environmental impact of buildings and the construction process. By using a combination of highly energy-efficient construction, renewable energies, natural materials and organic design elements sustainable design minimises environmental damage and reduces energy consumption. By choosing green design, you ensure today’s actions will not adversely affect future generations.
An eco-architect designs a sustainable life
Choosing an eco-architect might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about making your lifestyle more green, but it can actually have the biggest impact. As public awareness of the human causes of climate change increases, more and more people are reducing their carbon footprint and living a more sustainable lifestyle.
Lots of us will consider recycling or using public transport more frequently if we are trying to be more eco-friendly. But one of the most significant changes you can make to reduce your energy consumption is make your home energy-efficient. Most old buildings are expensive to run due to their inefficiency and out-dated technology, and as well as the price on your pocket is the price on the planet. While it might seem improbable, buildings are responsible for a massive 30% of global carbon emissions. Moreover, many buildings are unhealthy, having poor indoor air quality, a lack of daylight and are completely disconnected from nature. So when it comes to building a house, adding an extension or renovating your property, how can you do it with minimal environmental impact? Enter the eco-architect…
The benefits of using an eco-architect
The benefits of using an architect that specialises in sustainability can be divided into three categories: environmental benefits, economic benefits and social benefits.
Environmentally:
Choosing a green architect is the best way to ensure your project will be sustainable and environmentally-friendly. An eco-architect will consider the greenest options available and build them naturally into your design. And you don’t need a wind turbine in your garden – even a small project can be made eco by using sustainable, natural materials and well-thought-out design.
Economically:
By using energy-efficient technology, or even just insulating well, you can reduce energy bills. And as more of us are recognising the benefits of green buildings, adopting green technology can add value to your home. There may even be financial incentives to help you too.
Socially:
Research shows green design enhances health and wellbeing. Simply improving air quality, having a reliable temperature control and better access to daylight can have positive effects on your mood. We’re big believers in biophilic design as well, and would encourage bringing nature into your space to get even more benefit.
If you’d like to talk to us about your aspirations for a high performance new build home
please get in touch at: info@koruarchitects.co.uk or call us on: 01273 204065
You can find the eighth chapter of our guide here: 'Health And Wellbeing'
