For Immediate Release

When it comes to residential lifestyle, big is not necessarily better, according to Archicentre Australia. What is more important is the design of quality living spaces that make best use of the location’s natural attributes while also taking into account budgetary constraints and local regulations.

The national architect’s advisory service says that smaller, quality homes also make a lot of sense for those seeking to enter the housing market or those wanting to downsize, particularly if a location close to the centre of cities is preferred.

Archicentre Australia director Peter Georgiev says as median house prices continue to rise, affordability is an issue for many Australians and this is forcing many to look to the outer suburban areas to build or buy their first home.

“These homes have traditionally been large, spacious dwellings of three or more bedrooms, even when family circumstances do not warrant this size. In recent years, these homes are being built with little allowance for principles of “passive solar” siting and courtyard devices, rather “alfresco” facilities are appended in locations that may not take advantage of attractive site aspects.

“There is no reason why two-bedroom homes cannot offer the same quality lifestyle as large residences, particularly if they incorporate passive solar internal and external design features.”

Peter Georgiev says there is no need to think the only option is an apartment as there are opportunities in the inner parts of most Australian cities to obtain smaller, single fronted homes that are below the median price for homes. There are also still some opportunities to build smaller homes on larger inner city blocks.

“In these instances, the assistance of architects should be sought for the design of quality living areas and outdoor spaces to make the most of siting limitations.

“People are becoming more conscious of the need for their homes to provide a healthy environment and smart design has become extremely important to delivering healthy lifestyle outcomes.

“Architects utilise their design expertise to enhance if not transform internal and external spaces of existing homes by taking into consideration solid principles that can set trends for current and future lifestyle requirements, sustainability, optimisation of running costs, local development controls and budgetary constraints.

“Questions such as can our existing home be made more sustainable; if we renovate should we utilise the existing spaces, go up or out; what construction systems can we use to save money; and what can give us short-term capital growth, can be answered utilising the expertise of an architect.”

Peter Georgiev says rather than being seen as an unaffordable extra, the cost of an architect should be considered as an investment in lifestyle quality and in re-sale value.

“Because Archicentre Australia does not build homes or undertake renovations, you can rest assured that the advice and recommendations you receive will be completely independent and objective, thereby providing information required to help you decide on the best course of action.”

 

“Designing healthy, sustainable environments within the home and surrounds is an integral part of the work of an architect, so make sure your new home or renovation is as well-designed as can be,” Peter Georgiev adds.

 

For more information go to www.archicentreaustralia.com.au

 

This media release has been written and distributed by:

Archicentre Australia

Peter Georgiev, Director

Level 1, 9 Strathalbyn Street,

Kew East, VICTORIA, 3102

Phone: 1300 13 45 13 | 03 9859 9950