Have you ever dreamed of living in an eco-friendly home that’s kind to the planet, comfortable and stylish?
The team at Paragon Living has made it their mission to build sustainable property using net zero principles. As leaders in sustainable development, we’re committed to building homes that tread lightly on the earth while enhancing your lifestyle. Forget cramped, off-grid cabins — our sustainably built homes seamlessly blend energy efficiency, renewable technology and contemporary design.
This guide explores how Paragon Living transforms the property industry through its dedication to environmental stewardship. Our holistic approach encompasses everything from construction materials to community outreach programs. Get ready to be inspired by homes that don’t just house your family but sustain the planet.
What Is Sustainable Property Development?
Sustainable property development means designing and building homes and communities with minimal environmental impact. As sustainable property developers, Paragon Living is committed to net zero homes and communities.
What does “net zero” mean?
Net zero refers to a state where the total greenhouse gases (GHG) emittted into the atmosphere equals the amount removed from the atmosphere. That is, net zero homes produce as much energy as they consume. In other words, the total amount of energy the home uses annually equals the amount of renewable energy created on the site.
Some of the ways we aim to achieve net zero builds at Paragon Living include the following:
- Using energy-efficient building materials and appliances that reduce overall energy usage in our homes. Things like LED lighting, Energy Star-rated appliances, high-performance insulation and windows.
- Installing on-site renewable energy systems like solar panels that generate clean energy to power the homes. The energy generated by these systems offsets the energy used by the homes for a year.
- Implementing sustainable waste and water management systems. We use low-flow plumbing fixtures to reduce water usage and have robust recycling and composting programs to reduce waste.
- Providing EV charging stations for residents with electric vehicles. We want to make it easy for our homeowners to adopt more sustainable transportation options.
- Using sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping designs with native plants that require little maintenance or resources. Our goal is to work with the surrounding environment, not against it.
By taking a comprehensive approach to sustainability across all areas of design and development, Paragon Living is pioneering sustainable homes and communities that contribute to a green environment. Our living solutions demonstrate that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Contact us today for info on our sustainable rental housing options.
4 Benefits of Net Zero Homes
Net zero homes are buildings that produce as much energy as they consume. They’re highly energy-efficient and use renewable energy systems, like solar panels, to generate power.
The benefits of net zero homes are enormous, and here are three important ones:
- They reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change: By using sustainable materials and renewable energy, net zero homes cut down on pollution from burning fossil fuels. One net zero home can slash carbon emissions by about 5 to 8.5 tonnes yearly.
- They lower energy bills: High-efficiency fixtures, appliances, and building materials mean net zero homes require minimal heat and energy. The typical family saves 25% on utility bills, running into thousands of pounds annually.
- They provide energy security: With their renewable energy source, net zero homes aren’t dependent on the primary power grid. They offer reliable, uninterrupted power during outages or natural disasters.
As a leader in sustainable living, Paragon Living is taking action against climate change by driving towards building net zero homes. We’re creating comfortable, luxurious spaces that have a very small impact on the planet — our Sunbeam apartment complex in Wolverhampton is an excellent example of our commitment to sustainable property development. Our net zero properties are good for the environment, your wallet, and our future. We can all work toward a greener tomorrow, one home at a time.
4 Critical Aspects of Sustainable Housing Design
There are a few critical aspects of design to consider for sustainable housing development in the UK, and they include the following four:
- Energy efficiency
- Water conservation
- Sustainable materials
- Indoor environmental quality
1. Energy Efficiency
A sustainable home aims to reduce energy usage as much as possible. This includes improving insulation, sealing air leaks, and using Energy Star-certified appliances.
Install double or triple-pane windows and add weatherstripping around doors and windows. Consider a renewable energy system like solar panels to generate your electricity.
All these steps will reduce energy waste and lower your utility bills.
2. Water Conservation
In a sustainable house, water is used efficiently, and waste is minimised.
Install low-flow showerheads, taps, and toilets to reduce water usage. A rainwater harvesting system can collect rainwater from the roof for watering plants or flushing toilets. With this approach, native plants in the landscape require little irrigation.
These measures will save thousands of gallons of water per year.
3. Sustainable Materials
Choose building materials that are durable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly.
Use reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, or stone instead of materials like vinyl. Paints, stains, and adhesives should be low- or no-VOC (volatile organic compounds).
A sustainable home avoids using toxic chemicals that can pollute the air and environment.
4. Indoor Environmental Quality
A sustainable home provides a healthy indoor environment. Proper ventilation, humidity control, and natural lighting provide good indoor air quality and comfort.
Choose an HVAC system with HEPA air filters to reduce allergens and pollutants. Non-toxic building materials and houseplants also help improve indoor air quality. Open windows and skylights provide natural light and ventilation when possible.
Following these sustainable design principles will help you build an eco-friendly home that’s energy-efficient, water-conserving, and provides a healthy living environment for years. Constructing sustainable housing options is essential to environmental responsibility and building a greener future for everyone.
4 Sustainable Construction Materials for Green Buildings
When choosing materials for your sustainable property, consider eco-friendly options that reduce environmental impact.
Here are four recommended materials for sustainable housing developments:
- Recycled and upcycled materials
- Natural and renewable materials
- Non-toxic and low-VOC materials
- Durable and long-lasting material
1. Recycled and Upcycled Materials
Using materials that have been recycled or upcycled, like reclaimed wood or repurposed shipping containers, reduces waste and demand for raw materials.
Reclaimed wood from old barns or factories gives new life to materials that may otherwise end up in a landfill. Repurposed shipping containers, on the other hand, are durable and naturally well-insulated, making them an ideal building material for sustainable housing.
2. Natural and Renewable Materials
Opt for materials made from natural and renewable resources that are sustainably and ethically sourced. Materials like bamboo, cotton, wool, and cork are biodegradable, durable, and replenishable.
Bamboo and cotton are excellent alternatives to wood and synthetic fibres; wool is a natural insulator that helps regulate temperature; and cork is waterproof, fire resistant, and compresses over time to create an impenetrable seal.
3. Non-Toxic and Low-VOC Materials
Choose non-toxic, low-VOC materials that don’t release harmful chemicals. Zero-VOC paints, formaldehyde-free insulation, and natural linoleum or tile flooring improve indoor air quality.
Use sealants, stains, and finishes with little or no VOCs and no added formaldehyde. Proper ventilation and air filtration also help create a healthy indoor environment.
4. Durable and Long-Lasting Materials
High-quality, long-lasting materials reduce the frequency of replacement and waste.
Metal roofs can last 50–100 years, and tile flooring and countertops often last a lifetime. Similarly, Energy-efficient windows and doors provide insulation for 30 years or more.
Durable siding materials like metal, stone, and fibre cement reduce replacement demand.
Paragon Living is committed to constructing net zero homes that reduce environmental impact by choosing sustainable, eco-friendly building materials. Our commitment to green living and sustainability means using materials that reduce environmental impact through their sourcing, composition, and longevity. The result is an exceptional living experience that is as kind to the earth as it is to our residents — contact us to have a taste.
4 Water Conservation Approaches for Sustainable Communities
When building sustainable property in a community, water conservation is crucial. Reducing water usage has significant environmental and financial benefits.
Here are four ways we preserve water in our developments — and how you can:
- Low-flow fixtures
- Rainwater harvesting
- Greywater systems
- Drought-resistant plants
1. Low-Flow Fixtures
Installing low-flow fixtures like faucets, showerheads, and toilets can make a big difference. Look for products with the WaterSense label that use only 1.5 gallons per minute. Switching to low-flow fixtures can save 25–60% of the water in an average home.
2. Rainwater Harvesting
Collecting rainwater runoff from rooftops and storing it for later use reduces the demand for municipal water supplies. The water can be used for irrigation, washing cars and other outdoor uses. Rain barrels and cisterns of various sizes can harvest thousands of gallons of water per year from an average roof.
3. Greywater Systems
Reusing greywater (i.e., wastewater from showers, sinks, and washing machines) reduces the treated water needed for irrigation and other purposes. Greywater systems divert used water into holding tanks, where it’s filtered before being distributed to plants and landscaping. Using greywater for indoor applications, like flushing toilets, can save up to 30% of indoor water usage.
4. Drought-Resistant Plants
Choosing plants that can thrive with little water, especially for large open areas, minimises the irrigation needed. Once established, drought-resistant plants like lavender, rosemary, succulents and native grasses require minimal watering. A helpful tip is to group plants with similar light and water requirements together.
Sustainable communities can substantially reduce water usage and lower utility bills by making a few simple changes. Every drop counts, so every measure taken to conserve this precious resource helps create a more sustainable future for everyone.
5 Tips for Embracing Nature Through Landscape Design
A sustainable housing design embraces nature and the local environment. Native plants that are well-adapted to your region’s climate require less maintenance and resources to thrive. They also provide habitat and food sources for local wildlife like birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
Here’s a run-down of how you can embrace nature and make the earth “go green” during property development:
- Choose native plants.
- Group plants by light and water needs.
- Leave natural areas.
- Install permeable surfaces.
- Reduce light pollution.
1. Choose native plants.
Select plants, shrubs, and trees that naturally grow in your area, as they’ll need little supplemental watering or fertiliser once established. Native plants also tend to be more disease and pest-resistant, saving you money and effort. Your local nursery can recommend native plants suitable for your property based on light exposure, soil conditions, and hardiness zone.
2. Group plants by light and water needs.
Cluster plants together that have similar light and irrigation requirements. This makes maintenance more manageable and more efficient. For example, group drought-tolerant plants in one area, shade plants in another, and moisture-loving plants around pools or ponds. Mulch around plantings to help retain moisture in the soil.
3. Leave natural areas.
Rather than manicuring your entire lot, leave some areas natural. Protect existing trees, leave underbrush and leaf litter, and avoid mowing every square inch of grass. Natural areas provide shelter and sustenance for wildlife; they also help reduce maintenance time and costs.
4. Install permeable surfaces.
Use absorbent materials like gravel, stone, brick or interlocking concrete pavers for walkways, driveways and patios rather than solid concrete. These materials allow rain and snowmelt to seep into the ground, which helps recharge groundwater supplies and prevents runoff. Permeable surfaces also help reduce the heat island effect in urban and suburban areas during warm summers.
5. Reduce light pollution.
Choose outdoor lighting that directs light downward to illuminate paths and entryways. This eliminates the need for excess ambient light that can disrupt wildlife, waste energy, and obscure night sky views. You may also use motion-activated lights, dimmers or timers to avoid leaving outdoor lights on all night when unnecessary.
By embracing natural elements and plantings, sustainable landscape design creates an inviting space for human inhabitants and local wildlife. It also ensures that your property has a minimal environmental impact and lower long-term costs — benefits that lead to a higher quality of life for all.
How Paragon Living Is Pioneering Sustainable Development
Paragon Living is committed to building sustainable property; we aim to achieve net zero energy for all new builds by 2040. This means the total amount of energy used by the buildings annually will be roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site.
Here’s a summary of our key approaches:
- Renewable energy generation
- Energy-efficient technologies
- Sustainable materials
- Green spaces
Renewable Energy Generation
Paragon Living incorporates renewable energy technologies like solar photovoltaic panels, solar water heating, and geothermal heat pumps into building designs to reach net zero. The energy generated from these technologies is used to power the homes, and any excess is sent to the grid. Paragon Living aims to generate enough renewable energy to offset the total amount used in all our builds.
Energy-Efficient Technologies
In addition to generating renewable energy, Paragon Living uses the latest energy-efficient technologies and building practices to minimise overall energy usage in its homes. LED lighting, Energy Star-certified appliances, triple-pane windows, insulated building envelopes, and heat recovery ventilation systems are standard in all our developments.
Sustainable Materials
Paragon Living chooses sustainable, eco-friendly building materials for all its projects. We use FSC-certified wood, natural linoleum or cork flooring, recycled glass countertops, and low- or no-VOC paints and finishes. We avoid materials like vinyl that off-gas harmful chemicals. All homes are also equipped with water-saving plumbing fixtures to reduce water usage.
Green Spaces
Paragon Living integrates green spaces and landscaping into all its property designs. Community gardens, parks, walking trails and naturalised green spaces allow residents to connect with nature outside their front door. These spaces also help reduce the heat island effect in cities and suburbs.
Paragon Living is revolutionising the real estate industry by building sustainable homes and communities with minimal environmental footprint. Our commitment to net zero energy and eco-friendly practices is helping to ensure a greener future for generations to come. Contribute your quota to ensuring a green environment by opting for one of Paragon Living’s rental options today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a home “sustainable”?
A sustainable home is designed and built to have minimal environmental impact. It incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems to reduce energy and water usage.
Five key features of a sustainable home include:
- Solar panels to generate renewable energy
- High-performance insulation and windows to improve heating and cooling efficiency
- Water-saving fixtures to reduce water consumption
- Sustainable and recycled building materials
- Electric vehicle charging stations to encourage alternative transportation
How does Paragon Living achieve net zero homes?
Net zero homes produce as much energy as they consume for a year through renewable energy systems like solar panels. This results in meagre energy bills for homeowners.
At Paragon Living, we are driving towards building net zero homes by adhering to the following practices:
- Optimising energy efficiency through innovative home technology, insulation, and LED lighting
- Installing solar panel systems sized to match the total energy usage
- Using low-flow water fixtures and drought-tolerant landscaping to minimise water needs
- Selecting sustainable and recycled materials with a lower carbon footprint
Conclusion
The benefits of building or living in a sustainable net zero home are too many to count. These homes are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and provide cost savings and increased comfort over the long run. While the upfront costs may be higher, net zero homes pay for themselves, thanks to lower utility bills and higher resale values.
If you’re ready to go green and live in a sustainable property, look for property development companies in Birmingham or any other West Midlands city with proven commitments to net zero standards and certifications — Paragon Living is a leading example. Do some research on incentives and rebates available in your area to help offset costs. Think long-term as well — while sustainable living is an investment, it’ll reward you and the planet for years to come.
Going net zero may not happen overnight, but every step towards sustainability makes a difference. Why not start today? Contact us at Paragon Living for comfortable, net zero rental apartments, including Luxury Apartments in Birmingham!
