3Stones Design + Architecture

“We invest heavily in the design process,” A sustainable future Moving forward, 3stones aims to continue achieving outcomes that are both client-pleasing and energy-efficient, just like they did at Sandycove Acres. “Sustainable design is one of our guiding principles,” Sean reiterates. “We know that buildings use more than 50 per cent of the energy that’s produced, and we have to bring that number down. We are very concerned with how things are going, so anything that we can do to help reduce the energy requirements of a building, we’re going to do it.” That effort will start with “low-tech,” non- mechanical design solutions such as building- siting orientation, natural heating and cooling, and natural ventilation. Once those opportunities are fully incorporated, they then look to introduce mechanical and electrical enhanced systems where appropriate. For example, the practice is currently working on a new home with solar panels, one that will have the capacity to go “completely off-grid” if the client chooses. “We believe environmental responsibility is the future for all building types,” Sean says. “We’ve seen