In harmony with the environment

Gary Baverstock from Ecotect-Architects, who has been designing and promoting ecologically sustainable design for more than 20 years, says it has taken consumers too long to realise the benefits of sustainable design.

“Solar design doesn’t have to be ugly, and when done right can look really good,” Mr Baverstock said.

“In designing this beach house the challenge was to harmonise with the natural setting of the beachfront at Eagle Bay, which would result in an ecologically sustainable approach.

“The objective was to create a balance between the beautiful eucalypt and melaleuca forest which flows virtually to the beach with its rocky outcrops, and a man made structure.

“If not tastefully handled it could have been a visual and environmental blot on the landscape.

“The style could be described as a blend of modernist and organic architecture.

“Clearly it is a 21st century expression, yet integrated in arguably one of the most beautiful locations in the world.”

Mr Baverstock said a lot of natural materials and passive solar design were used in trying to achieve an understated, relaxed style.

“The stretch of beach the house is located on has a northerly orientation, which is ideal for passive solar design, and the house has been designed to trap the cooling summer breezes,” he said.

“It is a very fragile area, and the house has been designed around the trees and dunes and also blends in with the coastline from a colour and texture point of view.”

TARKETT ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE award

Building

South West beach house.

Architects

Ecotect-Architects.

Down South Building Co (builder).

Jury comments

“A fully mature example of excellent energy efficient planning, delightful spaces and aesthetically pleasing details.”