‘Green’ architecture is a fast-growing industry, but conceptions among the public remain mixed as to whether it is affordable, feasible, and aesthetically desirable. Four Walls Architecture Ltd, an up-and-coming, recently established architecture practice, believes the future of architecture lies in an integrated, creative response to each and every site and client brief, so that sustainable, responsible architecture seamlessly mixes with excellent design and usability for residential and commercial clients.

“We believe we all have a responsibility to incorporate green practices into our residential and commercial buildings. And it doesn’t have to cost the earth or compromise good design: challenging ourselves to incorporate just one or two green features in a new or refurbished building will still make a difference to the impact we have on our environment,” comments Amy Hendry, Auckland architect and director of the company.

An unfortunate bi-product of the growth of a more environmentally friendly building industry is “green-washing”: products or systems which are touted or implied to be sustainable and are only slightly, or no more, efficient than their regular substitutes. “Manufacturers have rightly recognised the business opportunities in green architecture, but unfortunately some do everything they can to promote products under that guise, even if their claims are inflated or simply false”, comments Ms Hendry. The amount of research a consumer has to undertake to find authentic products is usually lengthy and can ultimately be frustrating and futile. “Using an architect well versed in sustainable products can be very valuable both to the client and to their project.”

Four Walls Architecture believes in a three stage analysis of every project: site, client brief and environmental impact, all with equal bearing on the architecture. “Various green practices are differently effective than others when the site and brief are scrutinised. It is inefficient to have a one size fits all approach. My company does not have a particular architectural style, but rather a distinctive design approach, which questions how each and every building, could look better, act better, and integrate better with its users and environment. Residential or commercial, we aim to create buildings that are civilised and generous, and which make your corner of the world a more inspiring place to be.”

Four Walls Architecture has experience in creating environmentally integrated projects New Zealand wide. For more information visit www.fourwallsarchitecture.co.nz, or contact Amy Hendry on 0274 523 027 or amyh@fourwallsarchitecture.co.nz.