Design Considerations

Comfort & Energy

How a house stays warm in winter and cool in summer, and how it is rated.

1. Seven starsWhat the rating measures, and what it takes in Canberra.
2. Thermal comfortWhy a room feels warm or cold, beyond the thermostat.
3. ClimateDesigning for the place the house stands.
4. Solar accessKeeping winter sun on your block and your neighbour's.
5. OrientationArranging the house and its rooms around the sun.
6. Room zoningGrouping rooms so you heat only what you use.
7. GlazingHow much glass, where, and what kind for each side.
8. ShadingWinter sun in, summer sun out.
9. InsulationA continuous warm layer around the whole house.
10. Thermal massWhen heavy materials help, and when they don't.
11. VentilationFresh air and summer cooling without winter draughts.
12. CondensationWalls and roofs that dry out under NCC 2025.
13. ConstructionHow the build system shapes performance.
14. Heating, cooling and hot waterChoosing and sizing heat pumps for an efficient home.
15. Solar, batteries and the all-electric homeA roof, switchboard and battery space that last.
16. Lighting and daylightEven daylight, little glare, and efficient lights.
17. BASIXHow NSW assesses energy, water and thermal performance.
18. Putting it togetherHow the decisions combine into one house.