Renovation to 1930’s duplex in Surrey Hills, Melbourne

In this extensive renovation, the clients required a solar efficient 2 bedroom home with large
living areas, 2 separate studies and 2 bathrooms. Their brief was to incorporate the latest
technology in solar efficient design, water collection, greywater system, PV grid interactive
power system, low toxicity finishes and use of forest friendly timber products.

The existing home was a maze of small pokey rooms. The rear of the building was removed and
the front living room converted to a master bedroom. The owners were keen to maintain the
streetscape and the connection to the neighbouring duplex. The finished design incorporates
the use of courtyards on the north face to maximize solar gain with extensive double glazed roof
glazing over the dining/ living area. The extension was built with a suspended concrete slab
for "thermal mass" to act as a "heat sink" and the party wall is built from AAC blockwork. The living
room has a basement below to accommodate battery room, storage and cellar. Maximum
cross flow ventilation was achieved with carefully positioned windows above the stairs to
create a thermal chimney/venturi effect.

The open plan nature of the kitchen, dining and living spaces opening onto an external north
facing deck and internal courtyard are very conducive to a relaxed lifestyle. The north facing
deck is protected by a shade sail in summer, which is removed in winter to allow maximum
solar penetration into the building. The pitch of the north facing roof had to accommodate
solar panels and a solar hot water service. Sunpower Design is a Melbourne-based
company specialising in the design of sustainable, environmentally responsive buildings.

The firm now combines solar efficient design techniques with a strong emphasis on the use of
sustainable materials with low embodied energy, totally recyclable waste treatment systems,
remote area power systems, energy efficient lighting and heating, low impact landscaping
and rainwater catchment. Sunpower Design has also designed a patented roof window called
the Sunsoaker Roof Window, which is manufactured under license and features adjustable
shading and ventilation and double glazing. "Our firm produces buildings that work in
harmony with the environment, by using technology that has low ongoing costs with a
minimum of mechanical intervention," said Company Director, Andreas Sederof.
Check out some more examples of good residential design at:
www.sunpowerdesign.com.au

For Professional Advice on passive solar design
Check the Solar Sisters website: www.solarsisters.com.au