We can’t underestimate the importance of ESD—responsible design must continue to grow.
Andrew Armstrong
Sustainability
As a local practice with a long history of working with communities large and small, far and wide, Fulton Trotter Architects appreciates sustainable design as a delicate balance of environmental, social and economic factors.
Our buildings
- are appropriate to their environment
- provide flexibility for various life settings and stages
- are constructed to a suitable budget
Fulton Trotter Architects is in step with the latest issues in sustainable design. Each office has Green Star accredited staff, and more undertaking training.
Environmental initiatives
- Solar orientation for natural lighting.
- Good ventilation to reduce the need for artificial cooling.
- Careful selection and specification of building materials and construction methods, with consideration given to waste, embodied energy and human health.
- Rainwater harvesting and water conservation.
- Appropriate shading and insulation to suit the climate.
- Use of native plant species.
- Low maintenance and low water use.
Social initiatives
- Use of local and affordable technologies.
- Connections to the community.
- Adaptability in the short, medium and long term.
- Safe and comfortable environment.
- Aesthetically pleasing and stimulating.
- Design with people in mind.
- Reinforce social networks.
- Discourage crime.
Economic initiatives
- Low-maintenance, durable materials that are cost efficient over time.
- Locally available building materials, minimising transportation costs.
- Passive design principles to reduce energy costs.
- Collect and reticulate water to reduce water costs.
- Flexible design to reduce future refurbishment costs.
- Select appropriate embodied energy in building materials.