Low Impact

Today was, as I mentioned in a recent post, Sustainable House Day where a number of houses designed with sustainability in mind were opened to the public across Australia. Seven houses were on show in Canberra, for a bargain price of $5 entry, and I went to see one in North Watson (pictured).

I’d actually seen this house once before – it was one of a few that were commissioned by the local electricity company (ActewAGL) with a number of different architects to demonstrate the possibilities in designing a house that minimises its impact on the environment. This particular house was designed by Strine Design who have built a name for themselves in designing solar passive homes.

It was great to have another look through – it demonstrates a number of straightforward elements that reduce a house’s environmental impact without sacrificing aesthetics. Some of its “green” features include:

• Concrete floors and inner walls which act as thermal mass, storing up heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night
• Deciduous vines growing up the west wall which shield the west side from the hot afternoon sun in summer
• Vacuum tube solar hot water, which provides hot water from the sun, but due to its design, can withstand Canberra’s -8 degree frosts!
• Adjustable eaves that can be angled to allow all the sun in winter, but plenty of shade in summer
• Thermal “chimneys” that both provide natural light as well as allowing hot air to be vented out in summer.
• Solar panels, not on the main roof, but forming a roof of its own over the entrance way.

The best thing about Sustainable House Day (or in fact any opportunity to walk through a house designed with environmentally friendly features) is that it allows you to see technologies and techniques “in practice”. It really gives you an idea as to “what works”, both from a practical and aesthetic point of view.

Inspiring stuff, and well worth a look if you get a chance.

Categories: efficiency, environment, green, housing, solar