As the drop in temperature spells the end of summer and reminds us that winter is not too far away my thoughts focus on what works well in New Zealand house designs and suits our variable climate. Last month I looked at some successful design principles for a house I visited in warm and balmy Queensland, Australia. This month I would like to look at some of the principles we can apply in New Zealand, and more specifically Bell Block.

 

One of the key factors that guide building design is the immediate environment. Such things as prevailing winds, where north is and view shafts determine how to a house can best be designed and work well in its given location.

 

For Bell Block the prevailing breeze is a westerly blowing in from New Plymouth or when it gets cold the wind will switch to the south. To overcome these intrusive elements it is prudent to have built structure to block the southerly, often the house itself and maybe screens or planting to dissipate the effect of the westerly. With a new, energy efficient house it makes sense to reduce the amount of west facing glazing to avoid overheating. Another good trick is to have wide roof overhangs to the north side of the house to shield it from the high level midday sun and limit excessive heat gain and yet still allow lower angle sun in during the winter months for maximum warmth. This can also be done with pergolas or removable shade sails.

 

Regulations have been toughened up to ensure new houses and renovations have a greater degree of energy efficiency. However it should be clarified that these standards are a “minimum”. Why not go beyond the minimum and aspire for maximum comfort. Increase the insulation, use argon filled double glazing or use energy efficient heating. The extra cost in the overall project is small but the comfort gains are the reward. Spoil yourself and get the design right.

 

Tony Biesiek

IMAGINE BUILDING DESIGN

121e Mangati Road

Bell Block

Ph 7699599

www.imaginenz.com