6 August 2020

Ask RiotACT: Green architects

3 November 2016 | Pepperly

Hi Rioters.

There was a 2011 post on this subject, but I’m hoping for an update. We are planning to build an environmentally friendly family home sometime in the near future and I’m looking for recommendations. I hear horror stories of people being advised that their $x brief and plans turn into a project costed at twice that much once tenders are sought, so am looking for architects who work closely with builders and seriously understand costs at every step of the way.

I’m hoping around an 8 star EER is achievable, with some ‘wow’. We like modern, sleek, but ‘warm’. There’s some gorgeous designs out there on firm’ websites, but independent reviews are harder to come by! Thank you.

If you’re also looking for an architect, check out our recently updated article on the best architects in Canberra.

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planeguy6:49 pm 06 Nov 16

Jigsaw was (is??) a kit/prefab home builder with a paticular desire for green results. As long as your desire for “wow” fits within their designers/builders opinions, I am sure you will get a great result, but be aware that you will have limited access to architects.

If you want a more architect driven process, check out Robbie Gibson – a few of his places we have seen have been amazing, and he is driven by sustainable design.

Lerenor11:18 pm 04 Nov 16

yeah, I was gonna say the same thing about lighthouse. I believe jigsaw (what they used to be) was a builder/scientist/architect partnership so if you’re looking for cross disciplinary experience and working closely with builders they might fit your bill. And I’ll always recommend the Mill as well as Shannon’s always seemed like a really friendly person and they work a fair bit on both environmentally and economically friendly projects so to speak as I understand 😉 All the best on your search!

crackerpants11:56 am 03 Nov 16

Try The Mill Design. The architect’s own house is on their site, is 8 star rated, and won an award in an under $350000 (I think?) category. Two storey house for family of 4. We’ve been working with them on our project for the last 18 months, can recommend 🙂 Good luck!

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Susan Chen3:53 pm 27 Jun 18

We are considering working with the Mill. What sort of project are you working on? We are considering a new build. Is 18 months the norm for this type of project.? How accurate where the estimates for costings? I recently spoke with someone who decided not to pursue their project with them as suggested designs would clearly go over the stated budget.

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Ezy7:43 am 03 Nov 16

Have a chat to these guys http://www.lighthouseteam.com.au

From an outside point of view, these guys know their stuff. Formally http://www.jigsawhousing.com.au – their site was a great resource for when I was planning some extensions.
The other site to check out is http://www.35d.com.au – these guys are also related to the jigsaw/lighthouse group.

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