Reece Daniel
Developer of the eco-focused estate Serenity Hills
Investing in an eco-friendly estate is not only an ethically sound decision but also a financially and logistically beneficial one. Long-term cost savings through sustainable lifestyle practices are far-reaching, and off-the-grid living allows residents autonomy from overstretched municipal systems.
“There is a global trend towards eco-friendly living, but this encompasses much more now than before,” explained Reece Daniel, Developer of the eco-focused estate Serenity Hills on the KZN South Coast. “This doesn’t just refer to the building practices and individual homes, but rather the eco-friendly practices entrenched throughout the estate to minimise the carbon footprint while supporting local conservation.”
Daniel outlined seven eco-friendly qualities that investors should consider when considering an estate.
Water conservation measures
The threat of Day Zero in the Western Cape and water woes experienced elsewhere in the country are just a few examples of what is anticipated to be an ongoing global challenge in the coming years. Eco-friendly estates will include water-saving features such as low-flow faucets and showerheads, rainwater harvesting systems, and drought-resistant landscaping. An added benefit is water storage systems such as dams for uninterrupted water provision. These initiatives help reduce water consumption and support sustainable resource management.
Green building materials
Construction of homes and other facilities on the estate should be done using sustainable building materials wherever possible. This includes locally sourced materials that reduce the estate’s carbon footprint while enhancing indoor air quality and providing healthier living spaces.
Energy-efficient infrastructure
Additionally, the home designs should incorporate energy-efficient features such as maximising the use of natural light and air to minimise reliance on artificial lighting and temperature regulation systems. High-performance HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems and LED lighting also reduce energy use while maintaining comfortable, well-lit spaces.
Renewable energy sources
Incorporating renewable energy into a modern estate is a must, with properties equipped for solar panel installations and gas-powered cooking appliances to minimise reliance on the grid.
Sustainable landscaping
Eco-friendly estates must be designed to harmonise with nature, using indigenous and drought-tolerant plants that require less water and maintenance. This will also support the region’s biodiversity by attracting local birdlife and wildlife while maintaining healthy soil. Sustainable landscaping also helps with climate change resilience, preventing flooding and collapse.
Waste reduction initiatives
An estate should promote recycling, composting, and waste reduction programmes at the residential level and throughout its facilities. Investors should look out for recycling stations and composting areas that reduce landfill contributions and foster a cleaner, healthier community.
Eco-friendly community projects
An estate cannot be inherently eco-friendly if it operates in isolation from the rest of the community. Investors should consider how the estate management engages with the surrounding communities in terms of sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives. Skills development, educational initiatives, job creation, and more can contribute to long-term sustainability. Within the estate, practices such as community vegetable gardens and conservation groups are incredibly impactful.
“Serenity Hills has been developed around all these core, eco-friendly pillars, with sustainability built into the estate’s ethos,” continued Daniel. “Residents who’ve already taken occupation enjoy the many benefits of this lifestyle, and we look forward to developing this further in each new phase.”
The 120-hectare Serenity Hills estate boasts modern amenities for all 600 beautifully appointed units across three neighbourhoods. This eco-focused estate offers residents secure living within the coastal forest, with many affording ocean views. The Packshed, Sweetdale Night Market, and Sweet Gang & Friends Farm Stall also form part of Serenity Hills, giving residents access to farm-fresh, home-baked goods and handcrafted items.
There are only a few vacant stands left in Phase 1 of Serenity Hills, and residents are already enjoying the nature-based coastal lifestyle within this stunning estate. Interested parties are encouraged to get in touch now to secure a spot!