Philosophy

Roger's aim is to provide the experience, design skill and technical expertise to turn your ideas into reality. The service can encompass all aspects of the design and construction of your building, from initial site inspection through to final hand over.

Good design, and a considered response to the site, climate and client's aspirations are key factors in producing quality buildings. The many and varied design requirements need careful analysis, with the final design providing a complete solution within an efficient and elegant package.

Each project is considered on an individual basis. There are many different aspects to be considered in order to produce quality design, for example:-

Each site is different. The site will suggest many things about the design of a house - What is the optimum orientation? Where are the best views? (the two may not coincide) How can the house complement the site?- expansive cut and fill operations can often disrupt the house/site relationship.

I believe in the concepts of "touching the earth lightly", and integration of the internal and external environments. What natural materials are available? Are there any existing structures which could be used? How is access available? What are the microclimatic effects? What are the risk factors? - high winds, flooding, fire, ground movement. What is likely to cause discomfort - western sun, westerly winds, noise, rain, insects? How can they be controlled?

What are your particular requirements? What are your likes and dislikes? What ideas and expertise do you have? What hobbies do you have? What is your long term vision for the house? How can I best resolve budget, space requirements and quality? The more I can understand about your lifestyle and aspirations the better.

Many people can be involved in the building process, they include the client, architect, structural engineer, quantity surveyor, landscape architect, interior designer, Council officers, the building team, specialist suppliers and tradesmen. The architect's role includes co-ordination and direction such that the vision is maintained.

Design for the climate is a key factor. Although we live in a relatively benign climate (eg heating is not a survival issue) there are times when conditions fall outside of our comfort zone. A well designed house can optimise temperatures such that the internal environment is cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Many passive environmental controls are simple and cost effective. Roof overhangs on the north can admit winter sun and exclude higher angled summer sun. Sunlight entering the house (particularly when through glass) during summer can cause overheating - this effect is obvious, but producing a design which avoids it is another matter.

Ventilation needs to be maximised during hot, humid conditions. Building materials with high thermal capacity can trap heat and re-radiate it - Great in winter, but not so good on a hot summer night.

I admire vernacular architecture. Building styles developed over centuries achieve a remarkable fit with the people, land and climate. Our culture (in this region) is a little young to have developed such a style, although the timber and tin 'Queenslanders' came close. The modern 'Sunshine Coast' style has aspirations in that direction. The answer is certainly not to import styles developed for southern Australia.

Specific building materials have particular qualities which make them fit certain uses. I believe that decisions about design, materials and construction need to be made for sound functional reasons. A trendy design today can become dated tomorrow, but good design stays relevant.

I hope to be able to guide you towards decisions which are environmentally friendly and cost effective in the long term.

As a professional, I aim to provide unbiased advice, whether recommending materials, builders, specific products or construction systems. I have no vested interests - I act on your behalf only. I am committed to providing you the best possible architectural service.