SANS 10400  -XA – COMPLIANCE THROUGH REFERENCE BUILDING ROUTE. Usually, this is an alternative in the event that the SANS 10400 – XA Prescriptive option somehow poses a lot of technical difficulties. In such a case, the architect or developer may actually decide to use the energy modelling route (the Reference Building Route). Most of...Read More

SANS 10400 – XA COMPLIANCE VIA THE PRESCRIPTIVE ROUTE. Since this option does not actually require the appointment of a Competent Person – Energy (SANS 10400-xa), then this is the method which most architects are most likely to adopt on the long run. Mostly, the younger architects are the ones who are going to favour...Read More

Whether owning a beautiful urban or country side home, a neglected landscape area or yard can ruin the overall impression. The aim of the outside landscape is to complement the house designs and perhaps add to your overall investment. For those who have never spent much time on landscaping, be aware that it takes a...Read More

Fireplaces & Your Home Comfort Nothing will make your home more unique than the warmth and style of a fireplace.  A fireplace will be your home’s central gathering point and its design, style and colour will be the foundation to the rest of your house and home decor.  Thoughtful planning and design will ensure your...Read More

Energy Efficiency and SANS 10400-XA. SANS 10400-XA is the latest piece of legislation that is meant to improve energy efficiency in South Africa. The South African national electricity grid and energy supply is currently under pressure. The limited supply is struggling to keep up with the growing demand. Usually, the cost of generating electricity from...Read More

Fenestration & Energy Efficiency in South Africa This section basically focuses on the encouragement of energy efficiency on architect‘s house plans and buildings at large – majoring in the South African context. It has been divided into a number of sections, all of which answer a specific question about the section. WHAT IS IT ALL...Read More

How To Build a House – A Step by Step Planning & House Construction Guide For most people, planning to build your own house can be an exciting adventure.  It is for this reason that more and more people are interested in learning how to build a house. And if you can figure it out,...Read More