DESIGN: Sustainability in Design / Tips from Bower’s Architect and Builder

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN TIPS

•  Choose your site carefully – limiting earthworks and site disruption reduces materials and labour.
• Orientation is so very important . Maximise orientation toward the north and minimise orientation to the west.
• Provide appropriate sun shading to walls and openings to allow generous access of Winter sun and minimise access to Summer sun. All of the Bower Suites are oriented to the north and the two new Studios have been designed with north-facing glazing and courtyards.
• Provide generous natural light. A well-designed building should not require air conditioning or lights to be turned on during the day. All Bower accommodation enjoy generous natural lighting.
• Create a permeable building that allows generous cross ventilation for beneficial south and north winds and limits exposure to harsh westerly winds.
• Build to allow efficient sealing to avoid drafts.
• Capture and utilise rainwater. It’s so much nicer than the stuff out of the tap.
• Landscape thoughtfully by utilising shade trees, grow some veges and plant an orchard – even if it’s just a few trees. Landscaping is such an integral part of the design at The Bower. It provides shade, creates space, provides privacy and most importantly provides a lush, visual and sensory delight.
• Select appropriate materials. Maximise the use of low embodied energy or recycled materials, sourced locally where possible. Most building materials for The Bower were sourced from local suppliers.
• Limit or eliminate the use of treated materials and products. So many building products contain harmful or toxic products.
• Design and construct in a way that utilises materials thoughtfully, suitably and efficiently, maximising their life span and allow for recycling or reuse. This applies throughout my work at the Bower.
• Education. Do your research and pass on the knowledge. We can all learn from each other.
• Employ designers, builders and trades who understand building sustainably, are invested in it and share your vision.
• Utilise solar power generation and if possible consider optimal panel location in the design stage. Rooftop solar panels have been used throughout The Bower and have been located sensitively to maximise output but minimise their visual impact (see the title image for the solar panels on our roofs).