acd architecture: philosophy

Some ideas to ponder before designing:
Functionality
What purpose will each room serve? How flexible will they be in an evolving and dynamic family life? Today's families needs differ from home to home, from year to year and from town to town. Are you able to turn a teenager's den into a home office? Will your furniture fit?

Energy efficiency
By considering energy efficiency from the outset, it is possible to minimize the household's impact on the environment as well as considerably reducing utility bills.

Factors such as insulation, double-glazing, solar heating and water storage all contribute to a cheaper and cleaner home.

More information on creating energy efficient homes is available at smarterhomes.org.nz

Technology awareness
In today's information age it is prudent to be prepared. Data cabling throughout the house is an important consideration.

Acoustics
Keep in mind the noisy areas (or people) in the home and accommodate the noise with finishes and furnishings.

Landscaping
What kind of outdoor living areas would you like to create? Are you are enthusiastic gardener or does a low maintenance rock garden appeal? Do you need a large area for entertaining or for children? Outdoor room? Covered area?

Before coming in for you initial consultation
Now you've made the decision to design and build your dream home, there are a few things to consider before consulting acd architecture:

+	Discuss your design ideas with everyone involved and have a basic idea and direction for your new home
+	Research and collate as much information as possible on the site, surroundings and council requirements (e.g., covenants). This will help speed up the design process as well as being prepared for unique area or site requirements.
+	Consider the quality and quantity of finishes and furnishings
+	Calculate an approximate budget

Sustainable future
acd architecture is committed to an environmentally friendly work place. We have a recycling and waste management policy that is adhered to in our office. We therefore encourage our clients to consider a sustainable design for their new home. The following concepts are steps in the right direction towards a sustainable future:

+	Orientation and position of the building on site to best utilize the sun and light
+	Insulation to keep the warmth in during winter and the home cool during summer
+	Solar heating
+	On site water retention
+	Water and heat efficiency solutions

Lets work together in leaving a clean a healthy planet as a legacy for our children!