Design Goal 1: My initial design goal is in regard to the style in regard to geographical context. From the very beginning of this process, I wanted to utilize a select panel of materials that reflected and alluded toward a specific geographical area. I have been enamored with specific architectural projects in the Santa Ynez Valley in California. I want to draw inspiration from this through the usage of a narrow palate of native and natural materials. The usage of glass and dark metal doors, windows, and curtain systems in addition to stone and dark wood facade is appealing to me.
Measurement 1: I can do a visual assessment for this. In addition, I can make sure to select certain materials I want to use and incorporate them in specific and desirable amounts.
Targets: Some tangible targets I can set to achieve my design goal are by allotting a specific amount of surface area to each material. It is too early in my design development to know exactly but I know that I want around 25-35% of my buildings surface area to be covered with glass and metal curtain systems. (whether that be doors, windows, or walls. Another significant portion, maybe 50% I will allot to a natural material of some kind (brick or wood) and the remainder a light sandstone.
Design Strategies: Some strategies I need to implement in this project is developing a more thorough understanding of the areas native building materials and to incorporate them into the landscape in such a way that is noticeable yet seamless.
Design Goal 2: My second design goal is focused on sustainability and the reduction of energy cost and expenditure. I want to maximize the use of natural light and utilize materials that insulate the house, keeping in warm throughout the winter and in the cold and also keeping cool in the summers. This will help to cut down electricity expenditures and encourages indoor / outdoor use that is very prevalent in the area given the climate. Also, my syle should permit for the usage of solar energy and the installation of solar panels.
Measurement 2: I can measure the effectiveness of the sustainability of my design by accounting for the amount of sunlight my design gets and from what direction and during which months. From there, I can measure energy consumption in comparison to other similar developments.
Targets: I hope to reduce energy costs and consumption 40% below the average among similar projects.
Design Strategies 2: One strategy I can implement is looking into the direction of the sun and install solar panels and curtain panels to account for maximum sun exposure. I can also account for the heat retention and cooling properties of certain materials.
Design Goal 3: My final design goal is to maximize the usage of the nature and the outdoors. My style and sustainability goals play into this as I want to create a natural looking structure that promotes the use of the outdoors and therefore promotes a sustainable lifestyle. My location offers beautiful rolling hills that are very fertile and primed for agricultural growth. They also offer a plethora of recreation opportunities and activities.
Measurement: I can measure this design goal by providing a very inviting landscaping and an indoor environment that is focused on the landscape outside.
Targets: To offer as many reasons to be outside as possible while still providing an exceptional indoor environment.
Design Strategies 3: Retractable doors and windows that make indoor spaces outdoor. Indoor space leading to outdoor in inviting manner.