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What is “Green Architecture”?


What is Green Architecture and how can the concept of green design be incorporated into our low carbon footprint community project Aroha? Read on to find out how our retreat project supports the philosophies of green architecture and design…

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What is Green Architecture and how can the concept of Green Design be related to our Aroha retreat?

First, let’s explain exactly what we mean by “Green Architecture“:

“Green architecture, or green design, is an approach to building that minimises the harmful effects of construction projects on human health and the environment. The “green” architect or designer attempts to safeguard air, water, and earth by choosing eco-friendly building materials and construction practices.”

The highest goal of green architecture is to be fully sustainable. Simply put, people do “green” things in order to achieve sustainability.

So how does this relate to Aroha?

Having spent the past week in Greece walking the land with our design team, we identified a number of ways in which our retreat project supports the philosophies of green architecture and design. These elements are intrinsic to the design and build brief and include:

  1. Ventilation systems designed for efficient heating and cooling
  2. Energy-efficient lighting and appliances
  3. Water-saving plumbing fixtures
  4. Landscaping with native vegetation and planned to maximise passive solar energy
  5. Minimal harm to the natural habitat
  6. Alternative renewable energy power sources such as solar power or wind power
  7. Non-synthetic, non-toxic materials used inside and out
  8. Utilising locally obtained stone, eliminating long-haul transportation
  9. Responsibly harvested woods
  10. Adaptive reuse of older buildings – restoring an 18th century building and reconverting it into an oil press servicing the surrounding olive farmers, reducing haulage and cost
  11. Optimal location on the land, maximising sunlight, winds, and natural sheltering
  12. Rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse
  13. Growing our own fruit/vegetables and herbs as well as supporting our neighbours by procuring produce from their small holdings; also sharing our produce with them
  14. Community initiative supporting the re-wilding the natural wetlands in the valley for everyone to enjoy and be proud of

All of these points are at the top of our minds for our eco-tourism retreat; combining sustainable low impact development with agri-tourism and collaborative community models.

So why should you be a part of our sustainable business ecosystem?

– Join us in creating a truly original sustainable retreat

– Be a part of the pay-it-forward community

– Have your voice heard within the Believe Tribe and Believe Aroha project planning

– Be the first to gain access to the Aroha wellness retreat

Want to know more? Head over to some of our other blog posts: 

Be Part of It: 8 Reasons Why

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Any questions? Drop us an email at contact@believehotelgroup.com

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