The Beachmere Project

THE DESIGN PROCESS

The optimisation of local climatic conditions to capture natural light, heating, airflow and water resources is all part of the design consideration. This collaborative process was undertaken over six months to achieve the most desirable and sustainable outcomes possible.

Throughout this process consideration was given to:

• The incorporation of design features that reduce the negative impact of the sun, whilst also harnessing the positive energy source it provides. Features such as high performance UV rated windows, specially designed eaves, and consideration of aspect and orientation of the home that ultimately affect the efficiency of the home.
• Eco-smart and innovative utilisation of shade, wind and airflow to assist in the passive heating and cooling.
• Controlled management of water capture and storage.
• Renewable energy production, storage and conservation.
• Minimisation of any environmental impact of the development on the surrounding area.

BUILDING PRACTICE

Implementation of an environmentally sound building practice was and is a priority for Sovereign Homes. It ensures the entire demolition and construction process supports sustainability.

This includes:

• Best practice for reuse, recycling, or reassignment of valuable building materials.
• Waste management, with significant reduction of materials sent to land fill.
• Managed hand demolition and stockpiling of re-useable materials.
• Reduction of power usage and carbon emissions through implementation of considered operational procedures.
• Efficient management of bulk deliveries and back-loading to and from site.
• Selective use of tools and heavy machinery.
• Movement of people and materials to and from site which include a car-pooling policy, availability of on-site accommodation, bulk delivery policy and on-site storage.
• Effective sediment control.

PRODUCT CHOICE

Critical to our success is the incorporation of eco-friendly product selection that supports environmentally sympathetic practice. Whilst some compromise is necessary in the construction industry due to the particular qualities demanded for safe, durable construction, significant advancements have been made in light weight, load bearing products that offer the strength and longevity required.

Product choice must be best suited to the purpose, given the structural and engineering demands of the building. Alternative, innovative design solutions have been implemented to reduce the need for materials high in embodied energy, such as steel.

Product choice considered the inclusion of products that:

• Have a better than average life span.
• Are rated highly in performance, verified by thorough scientific testing and acknowledged by recognised governing bodies, for example products that are water rated, energy rated and have a chain of custody.
• Are low in embodied energy where possible.
• Contain low or no VOCs. (Volatile Organic Compounds)
• Are light weight to reduce the need for heavy machinery.
• Have low long term negative environmental impact.
• Are durable
• Are recyclable
• Offer advanced innovative design features and technology that support conservation of natural resources.

SUPPLIER CHOICE

The suppliers chosen to showcase their product in this home are not only required to demonstrate proactive development of eco-friendly product, but are also required to produce their products in an environmentally sound way. We have chosen:

• Suppliers who accept returns or have an acceptable recycling policy for product off-cuts and packaging.
• Local suppliers where possible to minimise the transport requirements of readily available products.
• A supplier with a delivery system which is endorsed as the best environmental option.

LIVEABILITY OF THE PROPERTY

The design of The Beachmere Project will take ongoing advantage of the natural resources available to it, harnessing sunlight, and wind energy that will support its operation and minimise its impact on the environment. “Net zero energy efficiency” will provide long-term cost effective operation for the occupants of the property through power generation and water conservation. In addition, many other features will offer luxury, look, feel and desirable low maintenance liveability.

• Air quality will be optimised by the selective use of products that produce low or no volatile organic compounds. The use of non-toxic adhesives and products that are proven to minimise the risk of irritation or allergic reactions are preferred for selective inclusion.
• Optimisation of innovative “passive” heating and cooling of the home will ensure cost effective comfort and a sound environmental alternative to expensive, environmentally harmful air-conditioning.
• The automated control of the energy demands of the home including security, lighting, ventilation, heating and cooling, water supply, appliances, doors, fans and blinds and the clever shut-down of non-essential services during periods of partial or no occupancy will further enhance the liveability of the home.

The construction of this concept home was completed in 2014 which coincided with the launch of The Beachmere Project website aimed at sharing our story of sustainable luxury residential development with others.