… its a way of living

that expresses a relationship between humans and the earth based on custodianship, sensitivity and respect, that results in developments that have the least possible impact (both visually and physically) on the natural & cultural landscape, and that reflect both internally and externally, the “sense of place” evoked by the intrinsic qualities of the landscape.

the guidelines are:

• developments should wherever possible have a sense of non-permanence and should if necessary, be easily removed from the landscape with minimal impact or permanent damage to the site
• developments should strive to reflect and add value to the essential natural attributes of the landscape
• structures should be designed to be site specific and respond to the natural, cultural and biophysical attributes of the site
• the natural landscapes should in effect “flow” through and over the structures wherever possible
• passive design principles should allow for maximum use of natural light and ventilation to reduce energy requirements
• natural materials, textures and colors should be utilized wherever possible to facilitate structures blending into the natural environment
• maximum use should be mad of materials that enhance “lightness”, “naturalness” and “non-permanence” of structures, without compromising on the need to ensure structural competency, comfort and function or cost effectiveness
• outdoor living areas should be permeable as possible (decked areas as opposed to concreted or paved) and incorporate as much of the existing flora into the space
• structures should not compete with or detract from the cultural value of the site. This would not preclude cultural elements from being incorporated into designs, but without paternalism or affected stylistic embellishments
• visitor facilities should enhance the visitors experience, reflecting the natural “sense of place” inherent in the natural and cultural landscape
• pedestrian access to facilities should wherever possible be suspended off the ground or constructed in a manner affording the least possible physical impact
• roads and services should have the least possible impact on the site, with all services (telephones, sewage, power and drainage) being incorporated into suspended bridges, walkways or ducked into roadways
• vehicular access to sites must be minimized as far as possible, with centralized parking and minimum road widths
• designs decisions should focus on principles of sustainable living through flexible use of renewable materials and energy sources that meet the needs of current generation without compromising the needs of future generations