Most people choose styles and features for new homes based on homes they've previously lived in. Many home designs are based on what each of us are familiar with and expect to find, not on what we need. Think back to which rooms you enjoyed living in and which were unpleasant. Learn from experience but be open to new ideas and be willing to think "outside the square". Good design works with any house style, new or old.
Things to consider:
- The number of bedrooms you need now and in the future.
- Space in hallways can be a waste, design for more living area instead.
- Make best use of the views.
- Shade all windows from summer sun.
- Make best use of natural light.
- Create cool, shaded areas for outdoor living in summer.
- Use the sun's energy for free winter warmth.
- Design in utility areas for garbage bins, clothes-line, etc.
- Add storage space such as wardrobes, cupboards, shelving, etc.
- Include an en suite bathroom or well designed three-way bathroom.
"Do we really want a double garage or would extra insulation and a pergola covered courtyard be more useful?"
GOOD DESIGN DOESN'T COST THE EARTH, POOR DESIGN DOES
People believe that good design always costs more. This is not true. Good design features can reduce building and operating costs through simpler construction, better planning, durable materials and energy efficient appliances. Common Myths
Decide what best suits your budget, lifestyle and home location. There are often design options that have very little impact on building or renovation costs.
Enjoy a more comfortable, healthy and affordable home. Choose features important to you. Be flexible where necessary and always keep the big picture in mind.
Free or inexpensive solutions for all homes
- Shade east and west facing windows with an external shade-cloth blind in summer. Shading
- Seal doors and windows to exclude draughts, you'll feel the difference.Passive Solar Heating
- Fit efficient showerheads and taps, you'll save money without changing your habits.Reducing Water Demand
- Gradually replace your old light globes with energy efficient compact fluorescent globes.Lighting
- Mulch garden areas to reduce water costs.Outdoor Water Use
- Install electric timers and movement sensors for when you forget to switch things off.Lighting
- Check energy ratings before buying appliances.White Goods
- Plant a shade tree and watch it grow.Sustainable Landscape
- Recycle and make garden compost - your plants and the environment will love it.Outdoor Water Use
- Re-use laundry water to water your garden.Wastewater Re-use
Add insulation to save on heating and cooling bills and be more comfortable.Insulation Overview- Add insulated skylights with sun control to save on lighting bills - your indoor plants will flourish.Glazing Overview
- Use heavy drapes with pelmet boxes to reduce heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer.Passive Solar Heating
- Install a solar or gas hot water service - they are better for the environment and can save you money.Hot Water Service
- Shade windows from the summer sun with a covered pergola.Shading
Medium cost items
- Install new windows or doors when renovating to improve light and ventilation. In most Australian climate zones you will benefit from free heat from the sun.Glazing Overview
- Add an extension to collect winter sun and cool summer breezes.Design for Climate
- Use high performance windows to decrease energy bills and increase comfort.Glazing Overview
- Recycle your waste water by installing your own treatment system to reduce excess water bills.Wastewater Re-use
- Capture free energy from the sun and wind.Renewable Electricity Overview
Looking for good design
"At the planning stage it is easy to make changes - it's not so easy when your mistakes are cast in concrete and you have to live with them. Good planning makes for a good building."
Whether building a new home or renovating, seek advice from architects, building designers, builders and others who understand the principles of good design.
Finding the right people to advise you is probably the most significant step you will take. Many architects, designers and builders provide an hour or so of obligation free discussion. Your local council may also provide useful advice.The complexity of your needs and flexibility of your budget will determine how much design advice you need. The basics may sound simple when explained by an expert but it is essential that you clearly understand them before undertaking any building, redesign or renovating project.
When you find your experts:
Show them your wish list.
- Ask if they use the Your Home Technical Guide.
- Get a list of homes they have worked on.
- Visit homes they've designed or built and talk to people who have lived in them.
- Ask your experts how your specific problems can be solved.
- Check their answers against the advice in this guide.
Most people choose styles and features for new homes based on homes they've previously lived in. Many home designs are based on what each of us are familiar with and expect to find, not on what we need. Think back to which rooms you enjoyed living in and which were unpleasant. Learn from experience but be open to new ideas and be willing to think "outside the square". Good design works with any house style, new or old.
In the early stages you may require a short consultation with a design professional to choose the best options for orientation, siting and climate. Later, you will require advice about materials and how best to use them.
The more challenging your block, the more professional advice you will need in the early stages to help create the best home.
Contact details for a range of related associations are supplied on the page Where to get help.
Don't be dissuaded by professionals or trades people who tell you it can't be done. Find experts who can make it happen.
