Breese Architects, “Authentic Creativity” in Vineyard Style Magazine
April 15, 2019
“AUTHENTIC CREATIVITY” FEATURE IN VINEYARD STYLE MAGAZINE
“AUTHENTIC CREATIVITY” FEATURE IN VINEYARD STYLE MAGAZINE
5 Key Elements for Designing
a Sustainable Home on Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard
Designing a beautiful home with rich architectural detailing does not mean having to forego the environmental benefits of energy efficient options available for new construction homes. Working with a residential architect, your home can provide both beauty and sustainability, resulting in a graceful addition to your Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard property that you will enjoy for years to come.
Here are 5 key elements for designing a sustainable home that is both energy-efficient and contributes to the architectural beauty that is Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.
1. Specify Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
Your windows and doors add to the overall appeal of your home. There are high-quality manufacturers in all every style from stock traditional to modern custom. Windows and doors provide for natural flow of light and air and draw your eye to the most appealing views from your home. It is very important to ensure that you are choosing windows and doors that complement your home’s design while providing sustainability and efficiency.
For example, if you want a wall of windows to let in a lot of natural light, choose windows that have the Energy Star label. This will mitigate air conditioning costs in the summer months. Another option to consider is gas-filled windows with low-e coatings that reduce heat loss, making them perfect for colder climates, such as New England winters.
2. Accenting with LED Lighting
Lighting is critical to accenting the beauty of the architectural choices in your home. Using LED lighting, your bulbs last much longer while still providing a kind of warmth in your home. They can be used in a variety of lighting fixtures. You do not have to forgo style and design to achieve energy efficiency. Consider the LED lighting option for any and all rooms in your home.
3. Designing a Structurally Sound Living Space
Sustainability often starts in the early stages of design when your home is being framed and made structurally sound. It is the relationship of insulation to structure that secures the best thermal envelope. Using insulated panels, for example, solves the structure and insulation in one step. Carefully detailing can improve the effectiveness of heat and cooling. While you might not see these options tucked behind your walls, they are key to the health of your living space, allowing you to safely enjoy your home’s beauty for generations.
4. Designing Ventilation
Part of the appeal of Martha’s Vineyard is amazing views of water open fields and natural woods. Therefore, building a screened porch or sunroom where you can sit and relax is a part of nearly every home. If you are considering such an addition to your home, then it is important to choose sustainable options to increase the ventilation throughout the space. Your residential architect has experience planning the location and orientation of the space. Opening windows from the top down and other thoughtful ideas can make cross ventilation really work. Beyond the shell, consider adding fans or hidden vents that do not detract from the views or the design details of your room while increasing air circulation throughout the space.
5. Choosing Your Wood Stove or Fireplace
Beautiful fireplaces add real ambiance and articulation to a gathering room in your home. A well-designed wood stove can also create a source of warmth in any room. Either feature can be the centerpiece to a room’s design and an inviting attraction for gatherings and relaxation. The atmospheric qualities of well-designed fireplaces cannot be overstated.
Your Sustainable Home on Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard
The regional culture and climate of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard provide a local authenticity and inspiration for your own personal tastes. Using sustainable fundamentals, you can create a beautiful home that speaks to your style while being environmentally friendly.
If you are considering building in the Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard area, please contact us for a consultation.
With more than 25 years of experience, Breese Architects is comprised of a team of exceptional architects and designers that work hand-in-hand with builders, engineer, and lighting experts to create beautiful and sustainable homes for each client. As residents of the island, we know the community and its tradition of architecture first-hand. Let’s make outstanding work together.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECT AND INTERIOR DESIGNER – WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOUR PROJECT?
If you’re planning a building or remodeling project, you probably wonder whether you need to hire a residential architect or interior designer. You may have already chosen a contractor, but is it necessary to hire another professional?
Generally, your decision depends upon your particular project. Each professional is trained in their respective specialty, and the homeowner must decide which is better suited for their unique project. Homeowners who live in a community like Martha’s Vineyard are, of course, concerned about the aesthetic value of their residences, and both the architect and designer are well qualified to satisfy the property owner’s desire to create a beautiful home. Architects and designers are creative thinkers, respectively, but each one’s job entails specific tasks. Read on to learn the key differences between residential architects and interior designers.
Residential Architects
Trained in engineering, architecture and project management, an architect has, as a rule, more extensive education and licensing than an interior designer. Because they’re involved in the overall planning process, architects tend to be more focused on abstract ideas. An architect is experienced in looking at the “big picture” and viewing the project in a three-dimensional light.
Architects can plan both the interior and exterior of a building and are aware of the community’s building permit process and building codes. They are highly proficient in planning electrical and plumbing layouts. The architect will also help with limited aspects of interior design, such as ceilings and trim.
Homeowners in the Martha’s Vineyard community might find it preferable to skip the contractor altogether and hire an architect only. You get first-rate service and the assurance that a professional will take care of the entire project, making sure the building is safe, sound and aesthetically appealing. If a general contractor is used, they also can oversee construction administration, making sure everyone involved is effectively communicating and plans are being executed as planned.
Interior Designers
Interior designers focus primarily on interior design and space planning, rather than engineering or architecture. The designer can create a lighting plan and help you choose your fixtures and recommend where to place them. They’ll also help you select the types of flooring and backsplashes that coordinate with your décor. Other tasks of the designer include choosing hardware and finishes, selecting paint and wallpaper, and choosing window treatments and other furnishings. A qualified interior designer will always consider the latest in modern design techniques.
Which Professional Is Right for My Project?
The jobs of residential architects and interior designers often overlap, and you can be confident that both keep up-to-date on the latest trends in modern design. The type of project will be the primary factor in your decision of which professional to select. If your building project is large, such as new construction or a major remodel, it’s better to go with the architect. If, however, you want to transform an area in your master bedroom into a powder room, you might find that an interior designer can best help you bring the ultimate in luxury and personality to that new room.
Here at Breese Architects, we have both architects and interior designers available in the same office and can work in tandem to provide a one-stop solution for your home improvement and building needs. As experts in coastal architectural design, we’re well aware of what requirements are needed in the area and can help you visualize and complete your dream project, one that is functional and dynamic to your personal style.
We know Martha’s Vineyard. Let us assemble the right team for your job and see how residential architects and interior designers can complement each other’s expertise. Build the right team from the start and create positive synergy from the get-go As we say here at Breese Architects, let’s make outstanding work together. Contact us today!
Breese Architects of Vineyard Haven, Martha’s Vineyard, and Greenport on Eastern Long Island.