Redcliffs Estuary, A Sustainable Building Design by Stufkens + Chambers Architects
A modern, beautiful house was designed by Stufkens + Chambers Architects in Redcliffs, Christchurch, New Zealand. It is Redcliffs Estuary, a house with some sustainable design concepts adopted, built for a growing family and their numerous guests.
The owners of this sustainable architecture building need a large, open-plan house with some functions, including socialization and business space, and a place of spiritual calm and clarity. The traditional home design in the location of the house became a challenge for the designer, beside the site constraints. The result is a three story contemporary house, composed by three separated building connected by transparent links wrapped around an open courtyard.
Some sustainable features were provided in order to achieve high sustainability for this house. Passive design was adopted to achieve high energy efficiency, supported also by heat recovery system. To maximize natural ventilation and good air circulation, the living pavilions can be fully opened up. Some sustainable building materials were also used, such as low VOC carpets, paints, adhesives and sealants for indoor, There are also dedicated service areas that allow ease of council recycle bins.
The eco construction is completed with wine cellar with controlled air condition. Five bedrooms, several living areas, study room, gym, pool, spa, and garages are provided too. To protect the house from over sun exposure, automated solar blinds are used. The use of big glass windows also provide natural daylighting for the house.
