Do all energy efficient and sustainable homes look the same? For me, the answer to this question is so obvious, that I never even thought about the question in the first place. But after some conversations I had over the last few weeks I realise it might not be as obvious to others.
So maybe we have to go a few steps back.
What defines a sustainable and energy efficient home? Do they all have to have the same features, in order to be energy efficient? The simple answer is. NO, not at all.
For a house to be sustainable and energy efficient, in needs to be well insulated. It needs high performing windows. Thermal bridges and air-leakage need to be minimised. Ideally the house should have some thermal mass. And the house should have good solar access. But that is mostly it. The actual roof form or the wall cladding/wall finishes are up to your personal taste.
No matter if you are building a French provincial home, a period home or an ultra-modern home. The actual look of the house does not define its energy efficiency and performance.
So, don’t think you cannot build or live in a sustainable home, if your dream home is a really traditional style, or a minimalist box.
We at Gruen Eco Design don’t specialise in a certain look of home, or a certain style. So, you can see French provincial, period homes as well as contemporary or ultra-modern homes. Because we specialise in energy efficient and sustainable homes. No matter what look you are after, we will make sure your home is as energy efficient and sustainable as your budget allows for.
Please have a look through our resources on our website for more information about what things to need to be consider when building or renovation a sustainable and energy efficient home.