Sustainable Design Archives

Window of opportunity: Costing the benefits of bushfire design

Almost a decade since Black Saturday and the subsequent introduction of Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ratings, many people are still grappling with this aspect of the building regulations. Building designer Dick Clarke unpacks his experiences with the standard, and suggests ways to improve its workability.

Sustainable Design

Choosing an architect

How a good architect can work with you to create a great design that is inspiring, meets your needs and is mindful of your budget.

Sustainable Design

The rise of the courtyard

As courtyards replace backyards as the primary outdoor space, architect Marie Carrel explains how they are best designed to maintain liveability.

Interiors

Stairs with flair

The humble staircase can do far more than provide access to your second floor. Stairs can fulfil multiple purposes from storage and thermal regulation to design feature or just sheer fun.

Sustainable Design

Open source home automation

Designer Paul Hendy explains how he used the open standard KNX software to augment his passive solar home for ultimate comfort.

In focus

The makings of a sustainable renovation

We present you with our top eight design considerations along with real-world profiles that show just how good renovated homes can be.

Sustainable Design

Keep your cool with external shading

Anna Cumming looks at the options for external shading, for both new builds and retrofits.

Sustainable Design

Not just window dressing: High-performance curtains, blinds and shutters

Internal window coverings can protect privacy and dramatically improve the thermal function of a house, and if you choose with care, they can help keep you comfortable for years.