Sustainability

Feel good inside with a sustainable home

The construction industry as a whole is grossly unsustainable. From concrete manufacturing to coal-fired steel mills, preferred exotic timbers and the massive carbon footprint required to push it all around the planet.

Holloway Construction prides itself on running our job-sites in a sustainable manner by recycling and keeping waste down to a minimum. We also strive to source local products from local businesses and select timbers grown and harvested by ethical methods.

But apart from that, we believe the greatest impact that we can have is to design and build energy-efficient homes. For instance, capturing light and heat to a well-insulated, internal thermo-mass structure will enhance comfort from sustainable, natural resources. With a single upfront cost and no maintenance, it will give back every day.

Let us think before we start, sorting it out on paper first to produce smart designs extending the life and efficiency of the home.

Sustainable homes require a different mindset; they are forever homes

Sustainable homes interact lightly and positively with their surrounds, enhancing the health and well-being of the occupants. Advances in technology, an increasing awareness for our environment, and changing mindsets, means more people are building more sustainable homes. We believe sustainable homes start with good design on paper and getting it right from the start.

Things to consider when creating a sustainable home:

• Consider your materials: What is their carbon footprint? Are they natural? Are they recyclable? Will they last a lifetime? Use local materials to reduce the impact of transporting them, and choose non-toxic building materials.
• Insulation: Insulation costs may be higher upfront, but they will give back through years of healthier living and lower running costs. Also consider double-glazed or thermally-insulated windows.
• Utilise the sun: consider passive heating options, solar water heating, and orient a new house for maximum sunshine.
• Consider the energy usage: Think about energy-efficient options for your home such as solar, low-energy rated appliances and whiteware, and alternative energy options.
• Consider water usage: Collect your own rainwater, choose water-efficient appliances and whiteware (such as baths, showers, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines etc).
• Think long-term: Consider if it’s a forever home and plan for the future; consider comfort levels (to reduce the instance of heating and cooling) and whether the home is single level or fully accessible (as you age).
• What’s the environmental impact: Choose native and local plant life for gardens and landscaping and consider the overall footprint of the home.

Sustainable homes start with a good design

Take the time to really think your house plan through and consult thoroughly with your architect on creating a more sustainable home, if you’re based in Central Otago and have any questions with regards to building a sustainable home, feel free to get in touch.