Ideas & Advice
Broccoli by subscription
People subscribe to magazines and newspapers, so why not food? With community-supported agriculture, you can do just that. This model of food production and distribution connects farmers and eaters, supports local and small-scale enterprises and offers financial, social and environmental benefits, and it’s gaining ground around the country.
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Ideas & Advice
Fan club
Today, sustainable designers agree that ceiling fans can be useful in cutting down on the need for more energy-intensive air conditioning.
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On the drawing board
On the drawing board: Nineties townhouse turnaround
Houses only 30 years old shouldn’t need major renovations. But many 1990s townhouses, often built cheaply and poorly insulated in this pre-energy ratings era, are not ageing well. Melbourne architect Ben Callery tackled one recently, demonstrating what can be done to turn these homes around.
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Subscribe to Sanctuary magazine
Modern green homes in Australia's premier publication dedicated to sustainable home design.
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Ideas & Advice
Getting it right from the start: Dos and don’ts for your sustainable build or renovation
A new house, or even a big renovation, is a dauntingly large project and often a significant financial investment – and few of us do it often enough to become experts.
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Ideas & Advice
Why Australian architects are declaring a climate emergency
Readers of this magazine will be very familiar with both the need for and benefits of a sustainable – or better, regenerative – construction industry. I am sure that like me, they are also astounded at the lack of real and effective action in this arena. Finally, though, things are a-changing.
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Ideas & Advice
The household gas dilemma
As Australia’s electricity grid greens, gas is losing its position as the cleaner and cheaper fuel choice for households. In fact, by installing gas appliances, many people are locking themselves into higher bills and emissions compared to choosing an all-electric home, as Renew’s ongoing research shows.
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Ideas & Advice
Playspaces: Child’s play gets serious
The importance of play is a hot topic in child development circles. We investigate the changing thinking behind playspace design and how playfulness can be incorporated into all kinds of spaces, both public and private.
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Ideas & Advice
Are we aiming for the stars?
Two decades after the introduction of the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, an analysis looks at how we’re building, the Star ratings we’re achieving and what needs to change to deliver climate resilient homes.
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On the drawing board
On the drawing board: Of lovable, well-made things
Inaugurating our new series On the drawing board, architect Matt Elkan muses about beauty and quality in the built environment, how they contribute to longevity, and how an appreciation of both has informed his recent work.
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Ideas & Advice
Green builders: How to choose the right person to construct your home
To turn a great design into a high-performing sustainable house, you need the right builder. Jenny Edwards explains where to look and what to ask.
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Ideas & Advice
Airtight design
If you’re planning to build an airtight home, it’s important that you also consider indoor air quality. We ask building scientist Jenny Edwards to tease out the issues around mechanical ventilation with heat recovery – including when it’s needed and when it’s not.
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