Abode Design & Draft

We take a conscious design approach to all projects. This reduces the impact of the building on its inhabitants and the environment. Wherever possible, we make sustainable choices with our clients.

• Construction Materials and Finishes
  Renewable, recyclable or biodegradable
  Waste reduction
  Low-embodied energy
  Durable and low maintenance
  Low toxicity levels
• Energy Efficiency
  Renewable energy systems
  Passive design elements
  Energy efficient fittings and appliances
• Water Efficiency
  Rainwater harvesting
  Waste water reuse
  Alternative waste treatment options

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Using a range of passive design techniques, your home can be naturally heated and cooled year-round. This reduces energy consumption and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

These factors allow us to achieve optimal passive design:

• Orientating buildings to capture warming sun in winter and cooling breezes in summer​
• Shading for protection
• Choosing layout decisions that optimise natural ventilation and lighting
• Thermal mass
• Creating sealed, insulated buildings for thermal and acoustic comfort
• Ensuring optimum indoor air quality through natural and/or mechanical ventilation and low toxic materials​​

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Quite simply, the biophilia hypothesis tells us that humans have an inherent need to connect with nature. Some go as far as to say it's written in our DNA!

To combat urbanisation and the affect of technology on our sense of connection, biophilic design creates more opportunities to connect with nature. This helps us in lots of ways. Of course, it is beautiful. But biophilia is about more than aesthetics. A biophilic home can boost your physical and emotional well-being, leading to calm, creative, productive spaces.

Our designs embrace biophilic design elements and include:

• Seamless connections between indoor and outdoor spaces
• Spaces for connection and sanctuary
• Indoor planting and natural features
• Use of natural materials, patterns and textures
• Maximised air quality and flow
• Cohesive external landscaping
• Green walls and roofs

Vedic design is an ancient technique of building homes and buildings in harmony with nature and natural law. With close links to Ayurveda, Vedic design involves balancing the five elements to promote ideal living conditions for harmony and well-being.

The following principles of Vedic design are woven into our projects:

• Site evaluation and building placement in relation to direction, slope, shape, natural features and positioning
• Buildings orientated to respond to daily and seasonal variations, maximising natural light and ventilation
• Beneficial room placement and orientation
• Use of natural materials
• Beneficial landscaping features and placement