The terms ‘sustainability’ and ‘eco’ are not obvious on ata's (formerly known as Adam Taylor Architecture) website. They are there (see if you can find them). But perhaps the future of green design is embedded in good design. Not something separate.
Homestar Practitioner
Ata (formerly known as Adam Taylor Architecture) are Homestar Practitioners. There’s nothing particularly special about this nowadays, except when you consider that there’s currently no requirement for Homestar and arguably very little precedent in the Bay of Plenty. So what’s the return on this investment for ata and our clients in Mount Maunganui and Tauranga?
In speaking with Adam, I got the sense that he just sees Homestar, like green design, as good business. A growing number of people are wanting more than what the building code has to offer, and young designers like Adam are more than happy to serve this market.
The Future of Green Design
From talking with Adam, I learnt that he enjoys and values the process of getting to know his clients and helping them to uncover their true motivations and aspirations for their new home. What does this have to do with ‘green design’?
It seems to me that when we get past what we think we should have, or what the mass market is telling us we should have (like four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a double attached garage), then we’re free to discover what our own values are. And quite often these are more simple things like a healthy place to live that’s not going to cost the earth to own and operate. Sounds kind of like a ‘green design’ brief. So, perhaps the future of green design starts with having real a conversation with ourselves about what we truly desire.
Not for Everyone
ata (formerly known as Adam Taylor Architecture) is not trying to be all things to all people. I see this over and over in successful practices. The designers, builders and consultants who serve their clients the best are the ones who know exactly who their clients are. By definition, they also know who their clients are not.
If you’re looking for a spec house to develop and sell or to rent out as a commodity, then Adam Taylor Architecture is not for you. (And, incidentally, this website and podcast is not for you either.) If you’re wanting a dynamic and practical home, with perhaps a fundamental but understated green flavour, start with a browse through Adam’s growing portfolio, then give him a call. Tell him you heard him on the show.
Adam is clearly passionate about producing homes that are good for people and that work well with the environment. If this is the future of home design, then the future is looking bright.
Article by Matthew Cutler-Welsh from Home Style Green, 18th November 2015.
‘Inspiring people to make a better place to live”
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