Below you’ll find the Staurt’s exact mission statement. For some of the less well-known concepts, we’ve added links for you to learn more.
- Iconic design (first and foremost) … that fits in the neighborhood
- Sustainable without aesthetic compromise
- Design for a family of five but accommodate guests and large gatherings
- Abundant natural light, garden views and outdoor living
- Use natural and healthy elements in gracious rooms with a clean, uncluttered, warm and peaceful feeling
- Simplify:
a. Fewer moving parts = less maintenance
b. Proven vs. bleeding edge = less worry
c. Fewer annuity costs and more enjoyment
d. Learn from others but don’t be afraid to be the first when necessary - Reduce, reuse, recycle (demo, materials, construction)
- Landscaping:
a. Low water use but visually stimulating, fragrant and colorful
b. Employ greywater use and rainwater catchment where feasible
– Learn more: The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Greywater Systems & Why Everyone Should Care About Rainwater Harvesting [Infographic] - Cost:
a. Not green for the elite
b. Do better than just optimizing the performance/cost curve by changing the shape of the curve and getting better performance at a lower cost …
c. … but spend more if you get more (now and on a net present value basis) - Design requirements:
a. Plan in great detail (measure thrice, cut once) before starting to build
b. Passive House certification = architect, builder, subs must have training
– Learn more: What Is Passive House Certification?
c. Net zero site energy use or Net Zero Source Energy Use
– Learn more: What Exactly Is A Net Zero Energy Home?
d. Aesthetic and efficient windows and doors
e. Surpass earthquake design requirements
