Sustainable Architecture and Method Studio
What is sustainability?
Sustainability is a broad term that defines the reduction in environmental waste and the use of the earth's finite resources. These resources also include fossil fuels related to energy production, such as the gas supply for your home boiler. In simple terms, we want to look for ways to manage the resources we have to sustain life on earth moving forward for current and future generations.
How can my project be sustainable?
You might well ask, “What do global targets have to do with my proposed building project?” Well, the answer is not too complex and something that Method Studio are happy to take care of on your behalf. For many years now, Method Studio have been incorporating sustainable methods of construction in our standard design process. The government guidelines and regulations provide a framework of minimum standards for all sizes of construction projects, including extensions, alterations, conversions and new builds. Below are just a few of the things that Method Studio implement in the design process to provide sustainable buildings that meet your needs as a client as well as the regulatory approvals of your local authority.
Method Studio’s sustainable design process
Building Regulations. Current building regulations are always achieved, and often exceeded in our designs. This is especially true with regards to heat loss in a building, which is typically reduced by increased insulation levels and excellent airtightness. Preventing energy loss is one of the major contributions to being sustainable. We can source SAP, U-Value and other calculations that may be needed to achieve building regulation approvals for your project. To learn more about SAP Calculations read our article.
Smart Design. The most common request that Method Studio gets is that an existing dwelling no longer has enough space to meet the needs of the occupiers. The time tested and proven method is usually to incorporate an extension or reconfiguration to an existing dwelling to increase its useable floorspace. Sometimes a new dwelling may be required or even desired, but, if we can provide a solution to extend or alter your existing building assets we will be happy to advise you on your possible options.
Detailed Design. High levels of detailed design are incorporated into each project, to ensure the building or extension meets the test of time, and its expected long lifecycle. A reduction in the need for maintenance or replacement of buildings and their elements is a direct result of the thought put into the finer details during the initial design of your project.
Building Orientation. Utilising the power of natural resources such as the sun can achieve sustainable goals. Using solar power, PV panels, solar heating, or even natural solar gain through south facing windows and thermal storage.
Renewables. Technology is always getting better. Method Studio is able to guide you through the complicated choices in this area, whether it is PV panels on your roof, solar water heating, geothermal systems, air source heat pumps, high efficiency boilers, wind power or anything else. We can also recommend contractors or manufacturers that can fulfil your renewable requirements.
Material Choice. Method Studio specify and design buildings using reputable manufacturers that provide clear evidence of the responsible sourcing and manufacturing processes of their products. Where possible these elements provide extended guarantees and lifespans, reducing the need for future maintenance, replacement impact and costs.
Client Specific Goals. Although Method Studio provide designs that meet and often naturally exceed government targets for sustainable construction and design, we are happy to discuss any specific items that a client may wish to integrate in their project.
Staff Training. As construction methods, materials, technology and products are ever changing, advancing from strength to strength, it is vital for our staff at Method Studio to keep up to date. CPD (Continuing Professional Development) is a means that staff training is continually being rolled out. We may enjoy manufacturer training about specific new technologies and construction materials or methods. Or it may be seminars on new building and government regulations related to building design. Each session of CPD allows staff to learn current and future proofing trends in the industry. You can learn more about CPD’s in this article.
This might seem like a lot of information and maybe even a bit overwhelming but don't worry, all of these items are part of our standard process and details that our team deal with every day. If you’d like to talk to Method Studio about your project including any additional sustainability targets or desires you have, feel free to contact our team today for advice.