Sustainable Home Design

For the scientists among us The Sunshine Coast sits in Temperate Zone 2 meaning we have moderate day/night temperature variations, however this varies significantly between the hinterland and coastal regions. Our summers can be hot with high humidity while our winters are generally milder the closer you go to the coast. With these variations in temperature it’s important to consider how your custom home build is designed so as to reduce your environmental impact and the running costs of your home. Heating and cooling your home account for approximately 40% of your total energy requirements.

6 Tips Sustainable Home Design Principles to Consider

  1. Harness cooling breezes by placing windows that allow for cross-ventilation.
  2. Consider passive cooling by double glazing windows.
  3. To offset the cooler night temperatures, thermal mass can play an important role in cooler microclimates.
  4. Include shading over outdoor living areas, particularly on the western side.
  5. Wide eaves admit the lower angle winter-time sun and exclude the higher angle summer sun.
  6. The orientation of the home is important. Ideally, the living areas should face north or close to it.

When these design factors are incorporated into the design of your home, you get a comfortable home with reduced heating and cooling costs and reduced home maintenance costs. Your home will be resilient as it is designed to cope with weather changes. Sustainable designs command higher property values.

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Allison Prior

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