Michael Orchard

After graduating in architecture at UCT in 1991 Michael spent 2 years working in Sikkim state, Northern Indian Himalayas on a Tibetan monastery restoration and additions with a German architectural practice, as well as visiting & studying the architecture of India, Nepal, China & Tibet.

Upon returning to South Africa, Michael worked as part of the in-house design studio at Spier wine estate , Stellenbosch, where he designed the Amphitheatre, wine cellars, various restaurant refurbs, & the Village hotel.

It was during this time that Michael developed a keen interest in low-impact, sustainable, energy efficient & climatically appropriate approaches to architectural design & practice.

Since 2000 Michael has worked on a range of commercial and residential projects.

Sandy Adams

Sandy’s interest lies in low to zero energy design for buildings. Working with the elements, sun, water, wind and earth, to create comfortable and healthy living environments. She is excited by the potential in merging ancient wisdom with cutting edge technology, moving towards net positive design.

Sandy graduated in architecture at UCT in 1994 and in 2004 completed the ‘SEARCH’ master’s degree through UCT, specializing in sustainable settlements in sub-Saharan Africa. More recently she has completed studies in using thermal and energy modeling software for buildings (DesignBuilder) and now provides energy efficiency and passive design consultancy services.

Since 2014 Sandy is an accredited ‘green star’ professional, assisting with Green Star SA Rating System submissions; and she is currently in training to become an EDGE certification practitioner. New Earth Design Studio is a member of the Green building council of SA (GBCSA).