Friday 10 September 2010
ARCHITECTS, builders and home owners designing new homes are
being encouraged to plan the garden at the same time.
According to Perth eco architect Mr James Shaw the garden is an
important design element and should be incorporated into the
concept design phase of a new home.
"Designing a sensible home means taking into account the
surrounding landscape, vegetation and climate," said Mr Shaw.
"A carefully designed garden can protect a house from harsh
weather and reduce energy consumption in the home by keeping it
cooler in summer and warmer in winter," he said.
"Native trees and shrubs growing at gradated levels can lessen
the disastrous impact high winds, storms and cyclones can have on a
house while providing a safe and secure haven for birds, insects
and animals.
"Deciduous trees placed in front of windows and walls that bear
constant summer sun can shade a home during hot months and warm it
on cold days when there are no leaves on the trees," said Mr
Shaw.
Mr Shaw said this positive utilisation of the surrounding
environment was the natural way to reduce artificial energy
consumption in the home.
"People are worried about increasing electricity, gas and water
costs and climate sensible homes with water wise gardens can save
thousands of dollars every year," he said.
Mr Shaw said the inclusion of a vegetable patch and retention or
reintroduction of natural vegetation was central in the design of a
new home.
"There has been a return to growing vegetables and retaining
natural bushland on home properties," said Mr Shaw.
"Growing vegies at home and reintroducing flora native to the
suburb shows care for the environment and a commitment to reducing
our nation's overall energy consumption," he said.
Mr Shaw said homes and gardens that comply with climate sensible
principles are worth approximately ten per cent more than houses of
comparable size in the same location.
... / Ends
Further
Information
Mr James Shaw: Tel: 0422 622 144 or 08-9286 3811
(Journalist) Jacinta Goerke: Tel: 0412 338813