How to Design a Sustainable Home: Complete Guide by MJARC Architects

Building a sustainable home goes far beyond a technical exercise. Above all, it is a personal expression, a life investment, and a commitment to the future. Creating a sustainable home requires knowledge, careful planning, creativity, and a responsible approach to the land and natural resources.

At MJARC Architects, we believe that building a sustainable home means designing a space that is beautiful, functional, efficient, and eco-friendly. This guide has been created to help you understand all stages of a sustainable residential architecture project—whether for new construction, full renovation, or rehabilitation. We also present the environmental strategies we apply from the very first sketch.

1. Sharing the Vision: The Foundation of a Sustainable Project

Everything begins with a conversation. This first meeting with the architect is essential to establish a solid foundation of understanding and trust. Topics covered include:

• Family lifestyle and number of occupants

• Functional and aesthetic project goals

• Location, type of land or property to intervene

• Available budget

• Timelines and legal or heritage constraints

At this stage, we also introduce principles of energy efficiency, water management, and landscape integration, always aligned with the overall project vision. This is where the foundations for a personalized and conscious sustainable home are laid.

2. Urban Planning Context and Site/Building Analysis

Before designing, it is essential to understand the context deeply. The feasibility study analyzes the land or building, ensuring the project aligns with the client’s wishes. This stage includes:

• Topographic and solar analysis (orientation, views, slopes)

• Verification of existing infrastructures and accessibility

• Study of urban planning legislation (PDM, RGEU, specific norms)

• Assessment of construction capacity and legal constraints

• Environmental and landscape diagnosis of the site

• Initial investment estimate

We also define sustainability strategies, such as:

• Passive use of natural light and ventilation

• Rainwater collection and reuse

• Pre-definition of garden areas with native species

• Use of local or low-impact materials

This detailed context ensures the project follows the principles of sustainable residential architecture and is integrated into its territory.

3. Preliminary Study: Turning Ideas into Projects

3.1 Concept Definition and Volumetry

At this stage, the dream begins to take shape. The preliminary study translates client desires into spatial, volumetric, and aesthetic solutions, including:

• Schematic plans and functional flowcharts

• Volumetric proposals and site integration

• 3D perspectives and digital models

• Initial material and finish proposals

3.2 Sections, Plans, and Elevations

Building height, width, number of floors, and solar orientation are defined. This optimizes natural light, passive ventilation, and reduces thermal losses. Additional considerations include:

• Building width and ceiling height

• Zenith lighting through roof or patio

• Opening proportions, influencing light, ventilation, and shading

3.3 Bioclimatic Strategies

Bioclimatic strategies are integrated for energy efficiency, including:

• Natural shading in summer

• Green roofs and filter gardens

• Creation of buffer zones such as balconies and pergolas

The result is comfortable spaces with low energy consumption and thermal and acoustic comfort.

4. Execution Project: Detailed Planning

Once the concept is approved, we develop the execution project, including:

• Technical architecture and specialty plans (structures, water, electricity, HVAC)

• Descriptive and justificatory reports

• Specifications and quantity schedules

Here we enhance water and energy efficiency with solutions such as:

• Solar thermal heating systems and photovoltaic panels

• Natural or recyclable thermal insulation

• Greywater reuse

• Optimized natural lighting and presence sensors

We also define landscaping elements, such as:

• Climate-adapted gardens

• Rainwater infiltration and retention areas

• Paths, patios, and recreational areas integrated with nature

The execution project ensures all information is clear for construction, allowing flexibility and quality during building.

Technical Principles and Application

We select mechanical components with high energy efficiency, such as:

• Condensing gas boilers

• Thermostatic radiator valves

• Temperature control adjusted to exterior conditions

We also minimize hot water pipe lengths, ensuring maximum efficiency.

5. Licensing and Construction Supervision

After completing the project, we manage the entire licensing process:

• Construction permit request or prior notification

• Follow-up on opinions and corrections

• Liaison with public and private entities

During construction, MJARC Architects ensures:

• Continuous technical supervision

• Coordination with contractors and suppliers

• Support for last-minute choices

• Adaptation of solutions as needed

This ensures the construction follows the defined sustainable project.

Conclusion

At MJARC Architects, we believe each home should reflect the life of its inhabitants and its surrounding environment. Every project is an opportunity to create human, environmental, and urban value.

If you want to build, renovate, or rehabilitate a sustainable home, contact us. Transform your vision into a concrete, efficient, and harmonious reality.

Contact us to schedule your initial meeting and take the first step toward the home of your dreams.