Creative & Sustainable Design for Residential Projects
Joshua Hovey is a RIBA Chartered Architect & Certified Passivhaus Designer, Serving Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Surrounding Areas.
Sustainable & Innovative
New-Build
We help self-builders looking to design their dream eco-home, and land owners looking to maximise the potential of their plot. We have a proven track record of securing planning permission within challenging design constraints such as conservation areas, national parks, AONBs and near listed buildings.
Contemporary Extensions
We design beautiful contemporary extensions. Transform your living space by adding natural light, improving the connection with the outdoors and creating harmony between spaces.
Listed and Heritage Property Alterations
Do you have a listed building or period property which lacks natural light, feels disconnected from the outside and has poor flow between living spaces? We are experts at turning period properties into functional homes, customised for modern living.
Sensitively Designed Barn Conversions
We are architects skilled at working with listed buildings such as barn conversions, in conservation areas and AONBs and with complex design constraints. Let us help you to make the best use of your existing building.
Sustainable Home Architects | Joshua Hovey Architects
Key Considerations for Your Sustainable Home Design Project
Establishing Your Sustainability Goals
When embarking on a sustainable home design project, the first key consideration is establishing clear sustainability goals. Think about what aspects of sustainability are most important to you—whether it’s energy efficiency, water conservation, or the use of eco-friendly materials. Clearly define your objectives, such as achieving net-zero energy consumption or incorporating renewable energy sources. These goals will guide your design decisions and help you work effectively with sustainable home architects to ensure your project aligns with your vision for a greener home.
Choosing the Right Location and Orientation
The location and orientation of your home play a crucial role in its sustainability. Sustainable home architects will consider how the site’s characteristics—such as sun exposure, prevailing winds, and local climate—affect energy efficiency. For instance, orienting your home to maximize passive solar gain can significantly reduce heating needs, while strategically placed windows and overhangs can enhance natural cooling. By taking these factors into account, you can improve your home’s overall energy performance and reduce its environmental impact.
Selecting Sustainable Materials and Construction Techniques
Choosing sustainable materials and construction techniques is essential for achieving your sustainability goals. Look for materials that are eco-friendly, durable, and responsibly sourced, such as recycled or rapidly renewable resources. Sustainable home architects can help you select materials with low environmental impact and integrate construction methods that minimize waste and energy use. For example, using high-quality insulation and energy-efficient windows can reduce your home’s energy consumption and contribute to its overall sustainability.
Implementing Energy-Efficient Systems
Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainable home design. Implementing energy-efficient systems, such as advanced heating and cooling systems, smart home technologies, and energy-efficient appliances, can greatly reduce your home’s energy consumption. Sustainable home architects will help you integrate these systems into your design to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, consider incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines to further enhance your home’s energy efficiency and sustainability.
Designing for Long-Term Durability and Maintenance
A truly sustainable home is not only energy-efficient but also durable and easy to maintain. When planning your design, focus on creating a home that stands the test of time with minimal upkeep. Choose high-quality, durable materials and design features that reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Sustainable home architects can assist in developing a design that emphasizes longevity and ease of maintenance, ensuring your home remains efficient and comfortable for years to come.
By focusing on these key considerations, you can effectively plan your sustainable home design project. Establishing clear sustainability goals, choosing the right location and orientation, selecting sustainable materials and construction techniques, implementing energy-efficient systems, and designing for long-term durability will help you create a home that is environmentally friendly, efficient, and tailored to your needs. Working with sustainable home architects ensures that these considerations are seamlessly integrated into your project, resulting in a home that exemplifies modern sustainability.