[Q&A] with the architects

How does one incorporate ecofriendly features in a new house?

“Firstly, it’s vital that you start with the fundamentals of ‘basic’ design,” advises Neal. “By this I mean the simple design principles that drive us should be nonnegotiable in terms of site context. We must keep in mind the light, wind, permanent on-site elements that create cold spots, such as shadows from neighbouring buildings, and other features including vegetation and the gradient. “These relate to the correct orientation of the building and how each façade deals with each element or site restraint.

All these principles can easily be adopted and require little or no further capital investment.” Other design and specification aspects may include: • A well-insulated building with correct ventilation; • Incorporating passive environmental methods such as solar power for heating and electricity; • Rainwater harvesting; • Using recyclable materials; • Sourcing local materials with a low carbon footprint.

The bed, side tables and cupboards in the main bedroom were made from OSB. Behind the built-in headboard is a dressing table, drawers and cupboards. The bed was positioned this way to make the most of the view. Bed and cupboards constructed by Solid Goods; Ardmore wallpaper from Cole & Son in the UK; bedside lamps from Woolworths