What are the NCC Standards and why are they a great step forward? In August 2022, Building Ministers across Australia collectively agreed to improve the energy efficiency rules for new homes and have now established 7 stars as the new minimum standard as part of the National Construction Code (NCC Standards). Despite the fact that … Read more
A Nation on the Coast and the need for Sustainable Design The appeal of sun, sand and surf has meant that now over 80% of Australians are living within the ‘coastal zones’ of our country. We appreciate the lure: we are one of those 80% too. However, we are often asked by clients what it is … Read more
A “home amongst the gum trees” is an Aussie dream for many. Whether you are creating a haven to escape the city life or a rejuvenating bush weekender, the true value of a home in the bush lies in its ability to enable you to connect with your surrounding environment. However, there are certain design … Read more
You may have seen the Greensmart Logo on our website or Facebook page and wondered what it meant so we thought we would explore it in more detail. The GreenSmart concept was a voluntary initiative undertaken by HIA in 1999 as a way to promote and improve environmental performance in the housing sector. There are … Read more
Over the last decade or so, as the focus of commercial and residential architecture has shifted to ‘going green’, the popularity of thermal mass in construction has boomed. However the concept of thermal mass is nothing new. Ancient civilisations, particularly in desert climates, quickly realised and embraced the benefits of thermal mass. But first, what … Read more
Subscribe to our newsletters and be informed about latest news, events and updates.