A tale of three winters

In a well-designed house, can you get by without heating? And how does far infrared heating compare to split systems, for efficiency and comfort? Jenny Edwards put her own home to the test.

Recycling solar

With the recent boom in solar PV installations and the increasing uptake of storage batteries, we take a look at what will happen to these products when they reach the end of their lives.

Solar system buyers guide 2020

Interview with a designer: cladding in the sub-tropics

Rain and heat mean different cladding and finishing choices in the sub-tropics, says Stephanie Skyring, an architect based in Brisbane. But a focus on sustainable materials is key, no matter the climate.

Sustainable salons

When our managing editor heard that her hair salon was joining a movement for greater sustainability, she was intrigued, and sent Kellie Flanagan to find out more.

Cladding case study: Charred for a long life

Quentin Irvine has been making and using charred timber cladding since 2015, both on his own house and for clients.

Cladding case study: Timber cottage with low-maintenance twist

This house in Willunga, SA, uses timber cladding for a cottage feel, but adds low-maintenance Colorbond and magnesium oxide board for the hard-to-reach areas.

Cladding case study: Cladding connections

This home in Melbourne has cladding made from beautiful 1960s timber, reused from the house that stood on the site before, combined with Colorbond and Shadowclad ply.

Renew 149: recycling special out now!

Looking for info on reducing waste on your building project or how to choose a sustainable new or recladding option? Find all the info you need in our recycling special and our cladding buyers guide in the latest issue of Renew magazine.

Donna to the (plant) rescue

Most nurseries recycle materials such as plastic growing containers, but what happens to any unsaleable plants? Sarah Coles speaks to Donna Grundy about plant rescue and an unusual business model.