Inherent in our approach to any design is the consideration for sustainable principles as a core focus. At the basic level, this means that aspects such as solar passive design, consideration for cross ventilation, incorporation of thermal massing and highly insulative building envelopes remain at the forefront of our thinking.
Wolveridge Architects are highly experienced in dealing with challenging pieces of land where, for example terrific views may also coincide with a westerly orientation. We understand a client’s desire to maximise their view, so how do we reconcile this and manage the overheating of the dwelling in summer and the massive heat loss in winter? In this instance, the architectural form should be prescribed by devices that keep the sun off the western windows for as long as physically possible and, given the often extreme weather on the west side, we look for opportunities to provide protected outdoor spaces on the other side of the dwelling, but ensure they can still enjoy the view.
Using the example from above, we can start to link how the physical form of a building may relate and belong to its site in a highly considered yet dynamic way. For us the integration of any building within its landscape both in how it sits within the land and how the building opens up to it with viewing corridors and the like drive our design approach and encourage each project to be unique.
At Wolveridge Architects, we are constantly exploring and testing how recycled materials can be implemented into our projects. Recycling provides a second life to something that has had a previous use. Often this means it has a weathered or a worn patina or texture that would be more appealing than the new version of the same material. Sometimes they are more cost effective than the new. We think the incorporation of recycled materials contributes also to the notion of context which runs vigorously throughout our projects. We continue to develop relationships with trusted supplies that provide a transparency in how they source their products so that our clients can be confident that the fabric of their buildings consists of quality materials that have been sustainably produced.
We have skills and experience in the incorporation of ESD (ecologically sustainable design) systems that should be incorporated into any project. These include alternative means of heating and cooling spaces, collecting rainwater, managing grey water, wastewater and the like.
Jerry Wolveridge and his family live in a house that has no grid connections. Buildings that are responsibly designed in respect of ESD principles are like yachts, you sail them, constantly tune them with the changes in the surrounding environment to maximise the performance and comfort levels of any building.
