Latest on heating, cooling and renewable energy systems in Spain
This is a hot topic because energy prices are rising, climate change is an increasing threat, people want to lower their carbon footprint, legislation is becoming tighter, and the market is demanding more comfortable homes. Here is a quick summary of what we are advising our clients to use in standard situations. We find eachContinue reading
Modern Marbella villas can be both eco-friendly and luxurious
Designing a modern villa in Marbella has amazing benefits for new home builders in terms of how far you can make your budget stretch. But it’s easy for those looking to invest in the region to become so enamoured with the design choices available for the home of their dreams that they overlook the factContinue reading
This is one important way to improve the energy efficiency of an existing building
The photos below show the Eco Vida Homes VH team applying external insulation to a renovation project in Guadalmina Marbella (SATE: Sistema de Aislamiento Térmico por Exterior). In a conventional building you can typically lose 30% of your heating and cooling energy because of poorly insulated walls. The cost isn’t just financial. Better insulation makesContinue reading
PV Panels for Solar Electricity in Spain
There are many reasons for wanting to generate renewable energy.Photovoltaic (PV) electricty is one source of renewable energy: Rising energy prices Climate change: its clean Compliance with the regulations Lower taxes as homes with good energy certificates are taxed less Income generation: when you’re not there your roof is generating income that can off setContinue reading
How to Assess the Financial Viability of Building a Home in Spain
How to Assess the Financial Viability of Building a Home in Spain
The financial viability of building a home in Spain boils down to two figures:
1.the value of your finished home
2.the costs of designing and building it and the cost of the land
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!
Container homes Spain: Can you build with recycled shipping containers in Spain?
Shipping container homes come in all shapes and sizes, from luxury villas made up of several containers, to single units for those looking for a way to get off-grid. But is it really a good idea to build container homes in Spain? While it’s entirely possible and there are a few good examples, there areContinue reading
