Author: Matthew Cutler-Welsh
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126 What’s the Responsibility of Architecture?
Dominique Gettliffe and Alejandra Baltodano believe in the responsibility of architecture to make spaces that are good for people. Architecture shouldn’t be about the ego of the artist. The responsibility of architecture is to be a catalyst for people to create amazing spaces. Spaces Make a Difference to Life What is it about a building…
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125 Slab Edge Insulation
Why is slab edge insulation so important? Surely it’s the roof we should all be worried about, right? Doesn’t heat go up? This is true, but the ground is cold. More importantly, the air right near the ground is really cold in winter. And this really cold air is right up close to one of…
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How to Keep Your Windows Warm
Windows are the Weakest Link Even double glazed windows are colder than the surrounding walls. Where are code compliant wall today will have an R-value of about 2.0, a typical double glazed window will have an R-value of just 0.26. For an older house with no wall insulation, the wall will have an R-value of…
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124: A Deeper Shade of Green
Want to create a passive solar, healthy, energy and water efficient home with your existing house? Get access to Johann for a three part workshop at a ridiculously low price! Spots are limited so register now! Dr Johann Bernhardt originally came to New Zealand, expecting to stay for a year. That was about 30 years…
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My Insulation Experiment
Overhead, the rain pelted down on the metal roof just above my head. I later found out that it was a record rain storm for Auckland. I believed it. The roof of the circa 1920s house I was crouched in bore an almost identical resemblance to the construction and thermal performance of the simple corrugated steel…
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123: Organic Architecture with Eric Corey Freed
Eric Corey Freed is no stranger to being interviewed. As author of 11 books, an architect, keynote speaker, consultant and sustainability thought leader, he’s appeared on numerous stages, screens and in written columns. In 2005 he was named “Best Green Architect” by San Francisco Magazine and in 2012 was named as one of the “Top…
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122: Second Eden
Elena Michel travelled to England to learn the art of sustainable architecture. Through her practice, Second Eden Studio, Elena now provides an alternative to the ‘McMansion’ and is bringing a global perspective of sustainable design to North Carolina. She also loves shipping containers! Second Eden Studio At Second Eden Studio, Elena provides a range of…
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121: The Sociable Kitchen
Ever noticed how people always seem to ‘turn up’ in the kitchen? Chris Larson definitely noticed this and has developed the concept of the sociable kitchen as a principle of his house design philosophy. He’s also in to making passive solar homes beautiful, which I love. Check out Chris Larson Architecture. Thanks to Pro…
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Passive House vs Homestar
What’s the difference between Passive House and Homestar? There are many different systems out there, all offering slightly different outcomes. Passive House vs Homestar If your main objective is warmth, health and low energy bills, this aligns well with the purpose of Passive House (Passivhaus). Energy, health and comfort are about half of Homestar. The…
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120: The Market for Zero Energy Houses
Ted Kane has a broad range of interests including nomadic cultures, modern urbanism the market for zero energy houses in New York. His work extends beyond his home in Brooklyn and he shares some great insights in this interview.