Solarei was founded on the philosophy that sustainability should govern how we design buildings.
This idea then becomes the beginning point of our discussion about design.
By designing buildings that respond to the local climates, many resources can be saved or used
more efficiently. The way this is achieved is by using passive design principles which use sun and
wind for natural heating and cooling.
Passive solar and passive cooling design principles maximize the benefits of good orientation to sun
and wind in temperate climates. By designing homes which trap radiant energy (the suns heat) in
thermal mass (concrete) we are able to sufficiently heat a house naturally over winter.
During summer time we design for natural ventilation and passive cooling. A passive solar home
can reduce it’s energy consumption by up to 40%.
This will be higher for some home owners who really commit to the principles of energy efficiency.
Passive cooling design principles use natural air flow, reduced sunlight, natural materials and
optimise shade in tropical climates. Correctly orientating houses to prevailing winds and preventing
extreme solar penetration into homes becomes fundamental. The use of shade becomes extremely
important through use of correct eaves design, feature walls, cooling ponds and local indigenous
plants to shade houses.
Commercial projects begin by proposing an environmental design strategy to clients that works with
the economic nature of the project and practical application of sustainable design ideas.
Other aspects of sustainability we focus on are material selection and correctly understanding the
‘Cradle to Cradle’ life-cycle processes of all materials used to construct houses and buildings.
We work on projects throughout Australasia and Asia.
Duncan Firth
Bachelor of Architecture (UNITEC)
NZCAD (WINTEC)
‘Awarded First Place equal in the
2010 Residential Concrete Sustainability Awards sponsored
by CCANZ (Cement&Concrete Association of New Zealand)’.
Duncan brings together a broad range of experiences ranging from
interior design, house design, commercial building design, resort
design, embassy design and master planning. Having worked on
projects throughout China, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore and
New Zealand he is able to offer clients a unique background of
international and life experiences. A strong conviction for sustainable
design, people, economy and beauty inform each project he works on.
Jutharat Thatprakob
Bachelor of Architecture(KMUTT)
BKK,Thailand
Jutharat is a licensed Architect in Thailand and has many years
experience working on residential and large scale hospitality
projects throughout Thailand, Singapore, India and Bhutan.
Clear communication and leadership allows her to work alongside
her team delivering successful projects.
Milti Stefadouros
Bachelor of Architecture (UNITEC)
NZCAD (WINTEC)
Milti has gained many years experience while working on projects
throughout New Zealand, Australia and the UAE (United Arab Emirates).
He adds value to every project he is involved in through his
experience and understanding of sustainable design.
He is passionate about creative practical design with a strong
emphasis on technical detail, resolution and, refinement of designs.
