CORNERSTONE Page 51 have a client who appreciated the principles of energy saving . We used double glazing throughout the residence , and installed underfloor insulation and natural ventilation mechanisms , as well as the standard required heat pumps and roof insulations , and even a grey-water and rain-harvesting system . The result is that when one enters the house , its constant temperate and comfortable environment , regardless of the outside conditions , is immediately noticeable .
Building legislation vs aesthetic guidelines
These two aspects go hand in hand , without a doubt . The building regulations are there for a reason , and have been formulated and revised over many years to ensure that buildings are structurally sound and efficient , but they do not specify any aesthetic standards . These are the responsibility of the developers , the homeowners ’ association and / or the estate management . But there is obviously an overlap , as certain regulations may affect the aesthetics of the building . An example is the requirement for solar water heating or heat pumps , which are not very attractive items . Solar panels must be placed to face the sun , and heat pumps can look quite unsightly , much like air-conditioning units . With these items now being a requirement , one has to accommodate and conceal them in an aesthetically pleasing manner – something that needs to be set out in the form of aesthetic guidelines .
The value of aesthetic guidelines
Architecture is probably the most visually dominant aspect of people ’ s everyday lives , and it affects us on conscious and subconscious levels . We live , work and play in buildings , but – sadly – some buildings are less pleasing to inhabit than others . It is therefore important to control the aesthetic of an estate by providing guidance and encouraging responsible and visually pleasing design . This is even more important on a residential estate , because estate living creates an expectation of a certain lifestyle . For this reason , reputable developers consult architectural professionals before starting construction , in order to establish an aesthetic standard .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John McKenzie established the practice of John McKenzie Architecture in 2006 , and focused predominantly on the residential market , striving to create unique and exclusive designs that achieve a harmonious union between client , site and environment . Over the years the practice has broadened the scope of the projects it undertakes to include motor dealerships , high-density living and retirement villages , in order to achieve a more diverse exposure in the industry . John also serves as the architectural consultant for the upmarket Saddlebrook Estate in Kyalami , Johannesburg .
Prior to establishing his own practice , John gained a wealth of experience in the fields of residential , commercial , hospitality and industrial architecture , working for various renowned architects on projects as diverse as the smallest of house alterations to multimillion-dollar hotel resorts in Dubai .
John is constantly exploring energy efficiency in design . With the increasing burdens on our natural resources , national grid and water supply , there is a definite need for a stronger focus on energyefficient architecture . The more awareness there is of this need , the more accessible and affordable these technologies will become .
John McKenzie Architecture provides a full architectural service from design conception to project administration , with selected service agreements available , tailored to suit each client ’ s requirements .
Designing with passion , innovation and value .
CONTACT : www . jmarchitecture . co . za