How Will Forthcoming Legislation on Carbon Zero Buildings Affect my New Build Home in Spain?
What the legislation actually says EU Legislation states that “all new buildings must be nearly zero energy buildings by 31 December 2020 (public buildings by 31 December 2018).” What does this mean for you now if you are thinking of building in Spain? Is there anything you need to pay attention to? The answer isContinue reading
Sustainable Paints Illustrate the Dilemma of Sustainable Building Materials
“The efficacy and durability of paint means that relatively high-emission paints with high durability may sometimes be a better choice than low emission paints with poor durability.” Forum for the Future
Continue readingA smart energy efficient home isn’t complicated or expensive
The basic message is that modern materials free us from some of the traditional design constraints of sustainable architecture. Nowadays you can have an energy efficient home and have the layout, appearance that we want: a smart energy efficient homes isn’t complicated or expensive.
Continue readingKeeping Up to Date with Insulation Technology in Spain
A new generation of insulation materials has been developed and they are thinner and better.
As you know insulation along with solar orientation, window placement, shading and window technology, are key factors in determining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home.
How do the new generation of insulation materials work?
Continue readingMy Five Favourite Eco Villas Worldwide
We wanted to prove that being ‘eco’ does not mean we can’t offer beautiful design
Continue readingDesigning the Optimal Solar Orientation of Your Villa in Spain
The angle at which the sun’s rays hit your home varies during the day and from season to season. It can have a big effect on your heating / cooling costs and on the overall sense of comfort your home gives you. It should be studied in conjunction with the layout and function of the rooms and outside spaces, the window placement, the insulation / thermal mass, and heating and cooling systems. Getting this right is a big part of designing a comfortable energy efficient home.
Continue readingWhy Build Green In Spain
1. Build Green in Spain To Save Money
2. Build Green in Spain To Make Money
3. Build Green in Spain To Be More Comfortable
Build Green for Regulatory Reasons
I was going to tell you about the regulations but after more than 20 years living and amongst my Spanish cousins I have become anarchic like them….. to hell with the regulations!
Top 10 Sustainable Garden Tips
When we plan a garden in Spain we like to create spaces for the different moods of the day: dappled shade, scents at night, spaces in full sunlight or for cooking and sharing a meal.
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