May 2010

How to win at VCAT

27 May 2010

A client recently approached us with a problem.
His proposed Dual Occupancy drawn up by another firm was refused its Planning Permit by local authority, Yarra Ranges Shire Council.
He asked us if we could help him at VCAT to overturn the Council decision and gain his Planning Permit.
We ended up securing his Planning Permit – WITHOUT [...]

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Sustainable Architecture Pillar 1: Thermal Comfort

25 May 2010

Why are some houses always uncomfortably cold even with a heater turned on?
The reason is that the perception of temperature is more important to our comfort than the actual temperature – a concept known as Thermal Comfort.
This article will discuss Thermal Comfort and its importance as the first Pillar in Sustainable Architecture.
Note: If you haven’t [...]

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Sustainable Architecture 101: Introduction

18 May 2010

Sustainable, ‘green’ design seems to be on everyone’s lips these days.
But what exactly does sustainability mean when applied to residential architecture and design?
This article is an introduction to a series that will bring together all the foundational elements necessary for true Sustainable Architecture.

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Sustainable Architecture: Simone Schenkel on SBS Radio

17 May 2010

This morning, in my role as Lead Sustainablity Designer and Consultant, I was interviewed on SBS Radio during ‘The German Hour’ program, alongside one of our Building Consultants, Mr Thomas Schirling.
The program is broadcast in German with today’s topic being Sustainable Architecture and Housing.
Post Script
Since the time of writing this article, SBS [...]

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Dual occupancy home designs: Don’t short change yourself!

13 May 2010

Welcome – you’ve just discovered one of our most popular posts!
If you got here because you are researching performing a Dual Occupancy Development on your property, you may also be interested in these articles:

Dual Occupancy Subdivision: A tale of two developments
Subdividing Land in Victoria: The 5 tests your property must pass

Alternatively, if you are [...]

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State of Design Festival 2010: Free workshop!

11 May 2010

State of Design Festival 2010: Free workshop!
Brutal Art Design + Build are pleased to announce our participation in the upcoming State of Design Festival:
State of Design 2010- Victoria’s Design Festival

When: 14th – 26th July, 2010
What: We are conducting a FREE, one-on-one Sustainable Housing by Design Workshop with property developers and new home builders.

Mark your calendar, [...]

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How to get a Planning Permit: Don’t design for VCAT

4 May 2010

Conventional wisdom amongst property developers attempting to secure a Planning Permit in Victoria is: “Design for VCAT”.
We’d like to suggest some unconventional wisdom: “Don’t design for VCAT”.
Here’s why …

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