Sustainability continues to be a growing concern for homeowners, in both the building process and once in your new home. We understand that reducing your environmental impact is more important than ever, so always endeavour to present sustainable options throughout the design and construction process. Here are just some of the ways you can integrate sustainable living into your home design:
Passive design
Passive design is all about taking advantage of one of Australia’s best natural resources – the sun – in heating and cooling your home naturally. If you live in a colder environment, this means incorporating north-facing windows that can absorb heat throughout the day, naturally warming these rooms. Should you experience a cold winter and a hot summer, window coverings like eaves can be installed on these windows, shading them from the summer sun to keep things cool.
Should you experience more hot days than cold, consider positioning your living areas to the south of your home, as these spaces will be sheltered from direct heat. Insulation – of which there are now eco-friendly options – can also help with maintaining an even temperature inside, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Floor coverings
The material that you install on your floors can make a huge difference to your home’s efficiency. Natural materials, such as concrete and brick, are more likely to absorb during the day, cooling the rooms in the summer. They also stop a room from getting too cold in the summer.
Should timber be your preferred aesthetic, consider using recycled materials or sustainable sources such as bamboo. Recycled floorboards are more common than ever and can not only help save the planet, but also a fair bit of money. Reusing materials wherever possible also reduces the amount that will go into landfill.
Roofs
Your roof is often an untapped resource that can help save money, as well as reducing your carbon footprint. The best case scenario – should your design and budget allow – is to install solar panels. This way, you can harness Australia’s natural resources and save on energy bills. If solar panels aren’t an option, steel roofing that has a reflective surface can be a great alternative. They are often recyclable and can reduce the amount of heat travelling into your home.
Should you really want to embrace the sustainable lifestyle, why not consider installing a living roof? With the assistance of a landscaper, you can create a a garden-like space where you can grow herbs and other small plants, or catch rainwater for your bathrooms and laundry.
Sustainable materials
It’s not just on the floor where you can use sustainable materials – you also have this option in most rooms in your home. For example, in the kitchen, you can opt for recycled glass counters, or even paper countertops. Both are just as durable as the traditional stone benchtops and much more eco-friendly. Timber is also a great option for furniture and other features, proving your builder sources the material from a sustainable supplier.
Should you be looking to build sustainably this year, get in touch with RJ Hill Homes. We can assist with all your needs, ensuring your home is as environmentally friendly as can be.
Building dreams into homes
If you can think it, we can build it!
