Climate-Driven Design Key to Sustainable Housing – Serenti Founder
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Founder of Serenti Africa LLC, Crystal Selorm Amuzi, has underscored the importance of climate-responsive design and long-term planning in achieving sustainable housing in Ghana, noting that thoughtful architectural choices are critical to ensuring comfort, durability, and cost efficiency over time.
Speaking on Zed Decor Live, a lifestyle and design programme focused on interior and exterior decor, Amuzi said Ghana is not short of capable architects who understand how to design buildings that respond effectively to the country’s tropical climate. According to her, when climate considerations are properly integrated into building design, homeowners benefit from improved thermal comfort, reduced energy consumption, and structures that are more resilient to weather-related wear and tear.
She explained that sustainable housing goes beyond aesthetics, stressing that buildings must be designed to “work with the environment, not against it.” This, she noted, includes proper orientation, ventilation, material selection, and spatial planning that reduce excessive heat buildup and limit the need for costly retrofits later.
Amuzi also addressed the issue of budgeting, stating that the cost of building and interior decoration varies significantly depending on individual preferences, lifestyle needs, and priorities. She cautioned homeowners against comparing budgets without understanding the underlying design intentions, quality of materials, and long-term maintenance implications.
“Budgeting is very personal,” she explained. “Two people can build the same size house, but the cost will differ based on finishes, functionality, and how much thought goes into durability and sustainability. What matters is aligning your budget with your long-term vision for the space.”
According to her, one of the most common mistakes homeowners make is rushing into construction or décor decisions without following due process. She stressed that sustainable and long-lasting spaces are achieved when projects move systematically from planning and design through execution and finishing, with each stage informed by professional guidance.
Amuzi noted that skipping steps at the planning stage often leads to frequent repairs, renovations, and escalating costs over time, undermining both the financial and environmental sustainability of the building. She urged homeowners to see professional design fees as an investment rather than an added expense, arguing that good design ultimately saves money.
She further highlighted the role of interior design in sustainability, explaining that functional layouts, durable furnishings, and climate-appropriate materials can significantly extend the lifespan of interior spaces while maintaining comfort and visual appeal.
“Longevity should be a key consideration,” she said. “When spaces are well thought out from the beginning, they age gracefully and require fewer interventions. That is where real value lies.”
Amuzi’s remarks reinforce growing calls within Ghana’s construction and real estate sectors for a shift toward climate-conscious, well-planned housing solutions that balance beauty, functionality, and long-term resilience, especially as urbanisation and housing demand continue to rise.
