As a society, how we view and act on social and environmental issues is changing, with our homes becoming more important than ever. They have never been under more scrutiny, due to our reliance on and increasing interest in their energy use.
Today, the key to positive environmental change starts at home – with every action, every choice, and every purchase. It is vital that we now focus less on short-term design trends and more on long-term values and opportunities to achieve net zero homes.
In the past, when discussing sustainable design for the home, the focus has always been on how we could lower a home’s impact on the environment through the reduction of its carbon footprint. But now, the deep impact that the human aspect plays in motivating sustainable behaviours and the resulting benefits to occupant health and well-being are being recognised.
To create future-facing homes, we need to combine these two design approaches. The benefits of this combined carbon- and human-centred approach to sustainable design are threefold — a reduced impact on the environment, enhancing physical and mental well-being, and improving quality of life and activity within the home.
Simplifying energy resilience design and renovation
Whilst much of the technology already exists to help on this journey, it isn’t yet in use in every home. There is a sense that resilient energy renovations aren’t yet accessible for all, either financially or because they seem too complicated. This is where architects and designers can help to clearly communicate the benefits and options to their clients; the only way uptake will increase is by making energy resilient design and renovation simpler, with net zero at its heart.
A holistic approach to energy system design, installation and use from start to finish is needed – one that looks at a home’s current energy use and how well it supports the household’s physical and psychological well-being, as well as opportunities for improvements. Creating a clear and simple plan for changes – what, when and how – is crucial. This requires thinking about the home as a system and joining all the elements in a network so that they work together.
Net zero homes: The future
Net zero homes are about more than just renewable energy sources; they are airtight, well insulated, and energy efficient to the point that they generate as much energy as they consume in a year, leaving the inhabitants with a net zero energy bill and a carbon-free household.
The secret to a successful sustainable green home is proper planning. Homebuilders must be committed to sustainable construction, creating homes that value the natural environment in which they are built, with a strong emphasis on architecture and design.
Apart from energy efficiency and lowering the carbon footprint, improving life quality is at the heart of building a sustainable home. Buyers should receive a well-designed new home with all of the requisite functions and no need for renovation.
Sustainable homes for healthy living
What is clear is that a sustainable home is better for both the occupants and the planet. At a time when the home is playing an increasingly important role in our lives, its impact on occupant well-being needs to be on the focus. Architects and designers face the challenge of incorporating all these needs and interests in their designs. The introduction of smart technologies which offer better sustainability and well-being will be key in making this a reality.
For more information on Schneider Electric’s energy management and automation solutions visit: www.se.com/uk/en/
