Tom Bomford Studio

Specialising in Innovative Architecture

There is great and diverse debate about the environment and climate change. People have become polarised into tree huggers or rampant sceptics.

My approach is different: I DO NOT LIKE WASTE.

My view is that our society has moved away from the good principles of thrift, and effective use of materials and resources. In the long run minimizing waste saves money for other uses; be they necessities or little luxuries.
If you agree with this principle then the division over climate change is largely irrelevant.

The effective use materials and equipment reduces long term costs. An extra dollar spent in construction will reap many more dollars saved in maintenance and running costs. I try to incorporate systems that can be easily upgraded and/or replaced.

Main environmental objectives can be achieved with sensible, cost effective decisions about size & layout, materials and equipment.

I urge clients to build to a size that fits their needs.

I promote passive solar design using high thermal mass (standard masonry & concrete) where the layout of the building and glazed areas are orientated to provide solar gain in winter and shading in summer. The object is to eliminate air conditioning but if fitted it will be smaller and need to run for less time.

Grid connected solar power is becoming more affordable with new government feed-in tariffs. Gas boosted water heating is now accepted, affordable technology.

I call this approach: long life, low energy, loose fit.

Ultimately this is a client-driven agenda.