Building resilience has become a major discussion point recently. Creating homes and buildings that are resilient against disasters is a primary concern of any homeowner. As the effects of climate change in the tropics become more prevalent, resilient design is a critical factor in tropical design. Hence, there is a new focus on building climate […]
11 Considerations for Building Resilience Home Design Read More »
In the Caribbean, we are accustomed to vibrant colours. It is a big part of our fashion, food, and cultural events. It is also a major aspect of houses and buildings. Therefore, choosing a paint/trowel finish colour for your home is an important decision. This is more important for your exterior walls since this is
Colours of the Caribbean Home Read More »
Choosing the best windows for natural ventilation is a significant decision in a tropical home. Windows that encourage the most natural ventilation are among the most important factors when building in the tropics. Generally, windows are a critical part of any home. Windows allow natural light and ventilation into your rooms. They protect against rain,
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Over the past few decades, it seems as if the average house size has grown significantly in the Caribbean. As I drive around the island, I wonder if people have gotten that wealthy in Barbados. How are they so many enormous homes that are under construction or recently built? They are found in several residential
Is Bigger Really Better? Read More »
The Coronavirus disease, COVID-19 has consumed the entire globe. Its wave of illness and death has affected us all in some way or another. We may know someone who had it, or we may have. Perhaps it is how it monopolized every aspect of the news, how we were quarantined to our homes for an
Designing with the Elderly in Mind | Effects of COVID-19 Read More »
Designed by: Metropole Architects. Overlooking a breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean is The Reserve House by Metropole Architects. It is located in the sub-tropical region of Dolphin Coast, South Africa. The house is a combination of Tropical Modern Architecture with Futurist elements. It features a pitched combination roof with large overhangs. Thin cantilevering concrete
Tropical Modern houses are becoming one of the most popular residential architectural styles in many tropical regions. Houses using tropical modern principles are more responsive to their climate. However, they reflect the time and current construction technologies that exist today. Whether it is perched on a cliff, looking over the beautiful ocean or nestled in
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I live in a concrete block wall bungalow built about 40 years ago. The house follows the typical style bungalow you see across Barbados and other parts of the Caribbean. It has the bedrooms and bathroom on the east to catch the breezes and the living, dining and kitchen on the west. The house offers
Why Is My House So Hot? 4 Things I Would Change Read More »
Designing a house in the tropics should always try to consider and respond to its region’s climate. This design approach is becoming increasingly relevant as climate change is projecting warmer temperatures in the future. As a result, designing a house to be more responsive to the tropics and its climate is essential. When designing and
7 Strategies For Designing A House In the Tropics Read More »
What is Tropical Architecture? Tropical architecture is the design that focuses and responds to the climatic conditions of the tropics. It studies the significant influences that impact architecture in tropical regions and develops passive strategies to lessen heat gain. It also encourages air movement through a home or building. Energy load consumption for cooling buildings
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