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38 result(s) found, displaying 21 to 38

  • Perth, Western Australia

    Two new townhouses and two new apartments using reverse brick veneer and straw bales.

  • White Gum Valley, Western Australia

    Two new apartments that use passive solar design principles, solar and water technologies, and smart home systems on a small suburban infill block.

  • Thermal mass

    Key points

    • Thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb, store and release heat. Thermal lag is the rate at which a material releases stored heat. For most common building materials, the higher the thermal mass, the longer the thermal lag.

  • Brickwork and blockwork

    Key points

    • Brickwork and blockwork are the most common materials used for residential buildings.
    • Brick and blockwork are materials used in masonry construction, which also include concrete, stone, manufactured stone, timbercrete and glass.

  • Rammed earth

    Key points

    • Rammed earth walls are constructed by ramming a mixture of gravel, sand, silt and a small amount of clay into place between flat panels called formwork.
    • Stabilised rammed earth adds a small amount of cement (typically 5–10%) to increase strength and durability.

  • Redfern, Sydney, New South Wales

    A community housing project that transformed a former Sydney depot into an urban renewal apartment complex, reflecting the character and cultural significa

  • Autoclaved aerated concrete

    Key points

    • Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) is concrete that has been manufactured to contain closed air pockets. AAC is one-fifth the weight of concrete.
    • AAC is available as panels and blocks. AAC wall panels are typically used for cladding, but can also be loadbearing. AAC floor and roof panels are also available.

  • Straw bale

    Key points

    • Straw bales were first used for building soon after the invention of baling machines over a century ago.
    • With straw bale construction, bales are usually attached to a frame and laid like giant bricks. Bales are compressed to minimise settlement and movement.

  • Parkside, South Australia

    New build using some structure of the old house and reverse block brick veneer and a Trombe wall

  • Warm – mild temperate

    Case studies in this section are specific to Australian Climate Zones 5, 6.

  • Lightweight framing

    Key points

    • Lightweight framing using timber or steel is the most common form of framing used in Australian homes.
    • Lightweight framing can be easily adapted to suit the site. It can also be combined with a wide range of cladding options to suit your climate, site and design.

  • Glossary

    Abatement

    Activity that leads to a reduction in the level of greenhouse gas emissions.

    Abutment

    A structure built to support the lateral pressure of an arch or span, for example at the ends of a bridge.

    AccuRate

  • Curtin, Australian Capital Territory

    Renovation using double glazing and effective gap sealing.

  • Caloundra, Queensland

    New home using reverse brick veneer and insulation.

  • Waste minimisation

    Key points

    • Construction and demolition produces about 40% of Australia’s total waste. Much of that waste can be recycled.
    • Reducing construction waste reduces your environmental impact. It may also save money by reducing materials costs and landfill levies.

  • Landscaping and garden design

    Key points

    • Landscaping and garden design can improve your home’s amenity, thermal performance, and value, and can reduce your environmental footprint.

  • Appliances and technology

    Key points

    • Appliances and equipment – including your kitchen and laundry appliances, TV, home entertainment, and office equipment – are a key factor in the energy use of your home. Home appliances and equipment use an average of 25% of household energy.