Eco Living
Design Builders produce “Nothing But Original Homes”, and this is clearly apparent with the latest addition to their design portfolio – the Eco Living display home on Russell Robertson Drive in Havelock North.
Within the first six weeks of the eco-home being open to the public, over 900 people walked through the door, a strong indicator that environmental awareness is becoming more important in the way in which we design and construct our homes. Scott Taylor, Sales Representative for Design Builders Hawkes Bay, says that the aspect which he finds most remarkable is the homes ability to utilize “Free Energy” and warmth through the passive design, and the combination of the solar and photovoltaic systems. Currently it is still connected to the grid, this enables the home owner to have “the best of both worlds!”. The eco-home utilizes solar energy which is sent through an inverter to supply charge to the batteries.
The 175m2 house incorporates a master bedroom with ensuite, two additional double bedrooms, a bathroom and a large open plan kitchen, dining and living area. “The home is high spec throughout”, says Scott. “The negative details enhance the look of the home. Recycled Matai bench tops look fantastic in the kitchen, while the glass shower and the stylish tiles give a sophisticated look to the two bathrooms”. The black oxidized polished concrete slab foundation is insulated to maximize the attraction and retention of the suns warmth throughout the home. It has a greater life cycle expectation than carpet and dramatically reduces the risk of asthma and respiratory illness usually attributed to dust mites and other nasties in carpets. The floor is complimented by crisp white walls and clever use of native timbers. The exterior is shadow-clad with a band-sawn edge facing the man-made stone. The eco-home stands out, even amongst its well-presented peers, as a stylish building that attracts the eye and showcase New Zealand made materials. The overall effect is a spacious, light home that projects a refined style and simple elegance.
The concept of an eco-home often conjures up images of a “green” lifestyle that means making sacrifices for the wellbeing of the environment, this is Design Builders eco-home easily dispels these myths. The home can be constructed to minimize these concessions through specific design, innovation, and exceptional workmanship. The costs involved in setting up the Eco Living aspect of the building can be offset by the possibility of returning power to the grid, big savings on the high energy costs and utilizing New Zealand made eco-friendly materials.
The Design Builders Eco-home can be constructed to any client’s individual specifications and is the perfect choice for a location that has no existing power connection. Sales Representative Scott Taylor will take you through the design process, beginning with your own individual design that suits the needs of you and your family. With no money up front you can see the colour rendered three dimensional plan of your proposed home and obtain a fixed price contract before parting with a single cent. The team at Design Builders Hawkes Bay understands that every person is unique, which is why they will design a home that is tailor made for you – weather it is a new eco living home, or one of the many other design and build options.


