SUSTAINABLE DESIGN - ZEN ARCHITECTS

MODERN PRACTICE OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

I know we've had discussions on how modern design/open plan living can be sustainable, so i thought this might interest some of you.

For a closer look/more projects visit www.zenarchitects.com.

Zen architctects is a practice based in North Fitzroy, their focus is sustainable and contemporary architecture.

They are committed to producing sustainable architecture 'Through the innovative application of established principles of ecologically sustainable design (ESD.)'.

Their expertise in natural heating and cooling, sustainable materials and water conservation maximizes the environmental performance of our buildings whilst informing our unique architectural aesthetic.

THE NORTH CARLTON GREEN HOUSE

An example that really interested me was the North Carlton Green House. Inspired by the clients intuitive connection with landscape and the sun, it utilizes passive heating, through north orientation; shading through deep eaves; passive cooling through natural cross ventilation; rainwater collection; and grey water recycling. 

It really linked to Domus and many of the suggestions we had to providing a comfortable environment in Kakadu. The only thing they didn't need to address that we do is electricity, all the sustainable design ideas can all be translated.

For photos you can visit http://www.zenarchitects.com/project6.html, the site wouldn't let me copy any. (really interesting)

Ecologically Sustainable Design (ESD)

At Zen Architects, principles of Ecologically Sustainable Design (ESD) are integral to our design approach and inform our unique architectural aesthetic 

We are committed to energy efficiency by employing innovative passive solar design to decrease reliance on heating and cooling, and encourage use of energy efficient products and alternative energy systems. We select materials that maximise thermal performance while minimising carbon emissions produced through embodied energy. 

We are committed to water conservation, integrating rainwater harvesting and grey water recycling to our buildings. We design buildings to respect and enhance their landscape and ecology, while connecting the occupant with the natural environment.

Sustainable materials are selected on a life cycle basis, considering environmental impacts during procurement, manufacture, use and end of life. We investigate the use of prefabricated materials and structures to maximise speed and efficiency of construction, improve affordability and minimise material wastage. 

We are dedicated to increasing social sustainability through designing buildings that encourage creation of community and are imbued with the spirit of equality.