Industrial Design Forum

More than ever before people around the world are becoming concerned with the way we're treating our environment and resources. And the reaction we get in return from it...

For my last year project in ID. I made it my task to design a completely self sustained, "zero" to "energy plus" building, prefabricated but still customizable and easy to set up.

My questions, if you'd build a house or are looking to buy one:
Can you imagine and would you like a completely different shape to conventional buildings? For what reasons, - strength, solar gain, corners are not natural, aerodynamics...?
What do you expect or want from a home?
What makes it comfortable to you?
What luxuries should it have?
How much would you consider natural forces in the design, such as storms, earthquakes, flooding and fire?
Have you built before or know people that have, or lived in such a place and is there anything you'd do different next time?

Any input would be much appreciated

Hi Laurenz,
Are you looking at the holistic view of the concept? architecture, structure, product, energy rating/efficiency etc. This will be a huge task but all the best. I suggest researching micro-architecture and compact living for inspiration and guidance.

http://www.ghd.com.au/aptrixpublishing.n...pt_feature
THis link is to GHD's proposed new ZERO building in Melbourne that will completely power its own needs and have a zero carbon footprint even from the mouths of the workers within. Quite amazing the measures and educational details that the building incorporates.

I've got a key book on micro architecture at home that has great examples of small buildings( that could be the title) there's a couple of editions. my girlfriend also did a paper in germany a couple of years back on MicroArchitecture through Vic uni. So i'll find you the name of the german expert that lectured them.

Hey, yea I'm looking at the complete project. You're right, it's a bit overwhelming at times, but definitely doesn't get boring. I'll have a look for the book. Thanks

You might of already looked at this but thought of it straight away when reading this thread.

http://www.meridianbuilding.co.nz/?#/