ESD pioneer

The benefits of environmentally sustainable design (ESD) are widely recognised, but most new homes incorporate just a few such features. All that is set to change, however, and this project is a prime example of just how much can be achieved.

The Lite-House on Waiheke Island is a mixed-use development built to meet a raft of sustainable design guidelines. Design director Bryce Ardern says even the mixed-use design is a sustainable concept the project provides three offices and a small, high-end apartment.

Ardern says the Lite-House incorporates green initiatives promoted by the New Zealand Green Building Council, Forest Stewardship Council, Home Energy Rating Scheme, Greenbuild and CarboNZero.

Key features include double glazing, with low-e glass and argon gas insulation; sound control glass; a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels to generate power; and an automated Trombe wall that traps heat as required.

Automated louvred walls and roofs provide privacy and protection from the elements but allow maximum light and air in the house. Eco-friendly products also feature throughout.

The Lite-House has already won several major awards, including three gold reserve awards in the residential, commercial and sustainable categories at the Registered Master Builders House of the Year 2010 Awards; the Resene Supreme Award and Residential New Single Dwelling (up to 250m²) Award at the ADNZ/Resene 2010 National Design Awards; and the Meridian Sustainable Homes $500,000-$1m Award.

For details, contact Lite-House Waiheke, PO Box 193, Oneroa, Waiheke Island 1840, phone (09) 372 5487. Website: www.lite-house.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas