WORDS: STAFF REPORTER :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
With the recent commemoration of World Green Building Week, we look at how a KZN developer’s commitment to sustainable practices is changing design for the better
Sustainability is now a crucial priority in the property sector, driven by a heightened appreciation of nature’s value in our wellbeing, as well as the pressing challenges of load-shedding and essential service access in South Africa.
In a Rainmaker Marketing’s ‘Key to Property’ podcast, Geoff Perkins, head of residential projects at Collins Residential, shared his insights on the sustainable initiatives implemented at their KZN North Coast developments and how homeowners could potentially adopt these as long-term solutions to their daily problems.
He says it is important for developers to incorporate sustainable elements at the beginning of the property design process. Integrating green elements before construction reduces environmental impact, lowers long-term costs, improves occupants’ wellbeing and aligns with market demands. By considering factors such as energy efficiency, water management and material selection during the design phase, projects can minimize their carbon footprint and resource consumption.
Key off-grid solutions
When considering water off-grid solutions, for instance, Perkins says rainwater harvesting is a practical option. It involves collecting rainwater from roofs or other surfaces and storing it for various uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing or laundry. Rainwater harvesting systems range from simple rain barrels to more complex setups with filtration and storage tanks.
In terms of retrofitting, he says that proper planning, assessment and professional guidance are essential to ensure compatibility with existing systems and to maximize efficiency.
“The initial investment for retrofitting can be significant, although long-term savings on energy bills can offset this. It’s also crucial to understand local regulations, permits, and potential incentives for renewable energy installations. Regular maintenance of the systems is important to ensure optimal performance and longevity,” he says.
Love living in nature
Lalela Estate, situated in Sheffield on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, is one of Collins Residential’s developments. Spread across about 104ha of lush greenery with natural wetlands, it includes 5km of walking trails and a community clubhouse where you can relax at the pool with the children or try your hand at putt putt on the lawn.
In this idyllic natural environment, all the homes are equipped with water harvesting tanks, promoting water conservation and self-sufficiency. Here solar panels is a viable and accessible option, where homes are inverter-ready and suitable for installation.
Additionally, gas hobs and stoves can be retrofitted into most homes after construction, providing residents with alternative energy solutions.
“Some common sustainable options for power and electricity include solar panels, energy-efficient appliances and lighting, and smart energy management systems,” says Perkins. “Off-the-grid solutions, such as solar power systems with battery storage, enable homeowners to generate and store their electricity independently.”
For example, at Collins Residential’s Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate, excess solar power is fed back into a micro-grid that reduces the draw off the national grid and builds u credits back to the homeowner.
A holistic view
The company places a strong emphasis on environmental restoration, planting trees, and establishing biomes, wetlands and nature trails within their developments. Their philosophy centres around nurturing complete ecosystems and environments, creating residential settings that flourish with diverse plant and animal life while taking inspiration from the natural world.
Collins Residential is dedicated to seamlessly incorporating sustainable elements into their property designs. Their vision encompasses nature conservation, energy efficiency and the wellbeing of residents, making their developments on the KZN North Coast a model for sustainable living that benefits both people and Mother Nature.
