The trend towards a more efficient living space
An ever-increasing number of people are choosing a more compact and energy efficient living space. The trend is towards reducing wasted space, becoming more energy efficient and enjoying a more liveable home.
Of course, a smaller space does not have to be a cramped space. All it takes is a little care and thought in the design.
There are a few key factors that must be woven into the design from the start in order to make your smart home a success. These include:
- Make maximum use of the orientation of your home
Take a long hard look at the orientation of your block and design your home accordingly, so you get maximum benefit from your position.When building a home with river or harbour vistas, (such as these homes in Manly and Noosaville {links to Noosaville II}) every detail of the construction should be planned to make the most of these views whilst staying true to Greensmart design principles. - Solar passive house design
Maximise winter sun and natural light by having larger glass areas to the north and fewer windows on the East and West to minimise summer sun penetration.Rely less on energy consuming heaters and air-conditioners by correct design and orientation.
- Cross flow ventilation for a fresh, clean home
Reduce the reliance on mechanical ventilation by being able to cool your home naturally.It is important to have a controllable supply of clean fresh air flowing uninterrupted through most parts of your home. Cleverly positioned windows and doors and high level vents and louvres help funnel the prevailing breezes through a well designed home.
Take a look at the way in which cross ventilation and other energy efficient principles are put into action in this home in Thornlands.
- Insulation reduces running costs
Ensuring the proper insulation is installed is a must to ensure that the smart designed house can perform at its best. Whether its dealing with radiant heat from the direct sun penetration or conductive ambient heat, the correct use and installation of insulation is a must.By observing and planning their designs around the position of the sun in summer and winter and the prevailing winds — our residential architects are able to construct a house (such as with this Warner home) that takes full advantage of these conditions to stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Ergonomic home designs
The essence of every good home design is effortless liveability. This is why it’s worth spending a deal of time thinking about how your family will move through the house, and relax and work in it.A little, practical thinking applied at the design stage makes the difference between a smaller home and a smart home.
If you’d like help turning your block (however small, narrow or challenging) into a smart home, call us for a chat.
As Civic Steel Homes architect Kelly Grimley says, “We’ve built plenty of large and impressive homes, but smart, simple, efficient retreats, built around energy efficient designs, are our passion.”
