Australians are becoming increasingly eco conscious. We’re seeing it in the way we shop, cook and, in home design. With the pressure on our climate mounting, sustainable, affordable housing is an excellent way to plan for the future.
Here at Arei Designs, we’ve made it a mission of ours to provide our subscribers with eco-friendly alternatives. We create plans tailor-made for challenging housing estate covenants AND different climates. The truth is, there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to eco-friendly house design. There are very specific passive design principles applicable to different climates. For example, the requirements for North Queensland vs the South-East Victorian climate are vastly different.
Sustainable Home Requirements
In order to meet the minimum sustainability standards, eco-friendly housing estates should include*:
- Minimum 7.5 star energy rating
- 2.5 kilowatts of solar
- 10,000 litres of rainwater storage
- Integrated on-site power generation
- 3 star plus water efficient plumbing
- Optimum site orientation for maximum energy efficiency
- On-site waste systems
- Use of recycled materials
- Sustainable manufacturing processes
- Reflective roofing materials
Sustainable Housing Estate: An AREI Project
Recently, we were approached by The Cape Project to design a suite of housing for a new eco-friendly, sustainable housing estate. The Cape Project is Australia’s first truly sustainable residential project.
This combination delivers homes that are comfortable year round with minimal heating and cooling and very low energy bills compared to conventional homes on the average housing estate in Australia. Further to this, The Cape has over 50% open space compared to around 10% or less on most conventional estates. Open space includes parks, walking and cycling paths, dogs off leash fenced park, habitat areas, community gardens, wetlands and landscaped road verges, and this open space can never be built out.
The project with Cape Homes is still in production however, we do have a few plans to showcase.
The Benefits Of An Eco Friendly House
It’s true, the cost of building a sustainable home initially will be more than the traditional counterparts. This is due to using high-quality materials throughout, solar, water tanks and more. Long-term though, the benefits will pay the difference and then some.
Energy & Water Efficiency
The cost of water and energy is increasing year after year. With a sustainable home, you’ll make use of solar power and water tanks which will drastically reduce these costs in the future.
Higher Property Value
As more and more Australia’s are seeking out an eco-conscious lifestyle, the demand for sustainable homes increases year on year. As such, your resale value will be more.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Taking steps now to reduce the impact you and your family have on the environment is crucial for the future. Building or owning an Eco Friendly House is a step in the right direction.
Low Maintenance
As the materials used are designed to be durable and stand the test of time, you’ll find yourself spending less on repairs and maintenance in the future.
Stay tuned for exciting updates from The Cape Project in the future. In the meantime, if you’re a custom home builder looking for cost effective, sustainable house plans, we’d be pleased to help!