The Music House - Barefoot Sustainable Design

The MUSIC House

It takes a lot effort to design a house around a busy modern family but when their life is focused around music and sustainability the process becomes effortless. The client brief was to create a light and open house that reflected its rural setting treetop setting. Overcoming the difficulties of a steep drop off on the rear of the property and for it become a modern example of sustainability in all aspects of power, recycling and edible landscapes.

Some of the larger requirements was to cater to the needs of the parents who are full time musicians and the development of a state of the are music studio, a recital room to use for teaching and an inbuilt vinyl and musical instrument display and storage.

The design includes features such as water harvesting and storage, renewable energy systems, hot water solar collectors, raised wicking bed gardens, and edible landscapes. Sustainable recycled materials and low VOC construction materials are prioritized throughout. The design solutions address challenges like a steep property drop-off while creating a light-filled, open layout that maximizes natural light and views. The project emphasizes the fusion of music-focused requirements with sustainable design principles to deliver a functional, aesthetically pleasing home with minimal environmental impact.

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Sustainable Features

Water Harvesting and Storage:
- Implementing systems for rainwater collection and storage for household use.
Energy Collection and Storage:
- Utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar panels for electricity generation.
- Implementing energy storage solutions for efficient usage.
Hot Water Solar Collectors:
- Integration of solar thermal collectors for hot water production, reducing reliance on traditional heating methods.
Raised Wicking Bed Gardens:
- Incorporating raised wicking bed gardens for efficient water usage and sustainable food production.
Edible Landscapes:
- Designing landscaping with edible plants to promote sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Sustainable Recycled Materials:
- Selecting building materials with a focus on sustainability and low environmental impact.
- Utilizing recycled materials wherever possible to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction process.
Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds):
- Ensuring indoor air quality by using low VOC materials for construction and finishes, prioritizing the health and well-being of occupants.