WELLNESS ARCHITECTURE IS AN ASSET
AuArchitecture designs homes and liveable spaces which blends the occupants health and well being with economics, sustainability, science and nature which collectively creates wellness in their homes.
The core elements are efficient built form and footprint, zero electric lighting during daytime, 100% natural ventilation, low VOC materials like paint, and energy and water efficient.
Net Zero buildings balance energy demand and production.
Our designs curb energy demand. That is our primary motivation, while energy production is secondary.
AuArchitecture aspires to make the built environment thermally comfortable, connected to the landscape. with distinct zones for quiet, calming retreat or for socialising- both of which have health benefits.
The wellness principles are implemented through the following design strategies:
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Spaces must be liveable
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Building footprints should be relevant to the site
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Permeable surfaces should exceed the minimum standards.
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Natural ventilation is a must
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Habitable rooms should enjoy an abundance of natural light
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Storm water runoffs must be captured and treated appropriately
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Homes should be energy efficient by having living areas facing north
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Courtyards should enjoy a northerly aspect where practical
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Outdoor Drying areas to be provided for clothes
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Windows and openings facing north, west and east to be fitted with sun shade devices
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Landscaping should be water efficient.
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Building materials from demolition should be recycled or disposed of responsibly
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Low VOC materials
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Construction management should avoid waste by using standardised lengths of materials
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Power generation on site through solar panels or i-glazing which generates electricity- geothermal where practical
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Rain water tanks should be connected to toilets to recycle water
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Rain gardens to collect/treat and then discharge storm water runoffs from hard surfaces to the drainage system
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Motion sensor devices to be fitted to outdoor and indoor lighting
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Integration of biophilic design which has been proven t add to occupant wellness.
Wellness Property Development
Case Studies
Our client's home was experiencing significant structural issues- due to the highly reactive soil, poor drainage and weak foundation which consisted of two courses of bluestone rocks supporting thick full brick walls.
The layout and add-ons were non functional and not in keeping with today's lifestyle.
The amount of maintenance required would produce low rental returns.
Our client explored structural rectifications- with no long term guarantees - and alterations and additions costing around $180k.
The alternative was to develop the 280 sqm land into two dwellings costing $400K which would return attractive rentals or be disposed off at a handsome profit.
The demolished materials would be partly recycled while some walls would be retained and integrated into the new homes.
Each habitable room will enjoy natural ventilation and abundance of natural light.
Water will be harvested and reused, landscaping would be water efficient, achieve 7 star energy rating and high scorecard for STORM and BESS are just some of the design elements built into the brief.
The introduction of green walls and vegetation in courtyards will further add to human wellness and comfort.
