A large percentage of the energy consumed within the average Australian home is used to
maintain a comfortable indoor ambient temperature throughout the seasons. This energy consumption
can be greatly reduced through careful design. In hot and humid weather, surfaces need to be designed
to collect excess heat that can be dispersed as the outside air temperature cools in the evening.

Flexible, well oriented shading is important to prevent the sun striking and heating walls and other
surfaces. A good air flow management also allows cooling breezes to circulate when required
and to be controlled when hot, dry conditions prevail. In cold weather, precious winter sun
needs to be captured to allow natural warmth and light into the interior of the home.

Designed by Garry Baverstock of Ecotect Architects, this Perth home incorporates all
these energy efficient strategies to maintain comfortable living spaces throughout the seasons.
The use and control of heat energy can be achieved through four energy efficient principles:
thermal mass, ventilation, orientation, insulation.

Garry Baverstock, Ecotect Architects, says that he is committed to sustaining our environment by
designing buildings that use materials, energy, and water resources efficiently and have
minimum impact on the site and provide a healthy indoor environment.
Ecotect Architects: www.solartec.iinet.net.au

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This home is a good example of ideal orientation with living areas facing north.
Generally, the long axis of a passive solar home lies within 15 degrees east or west of north.
The main need is to position the home to encourage penetration of the winter sun
through the north facing windows to provide warmth during colder periods.

Window position is also critical. Judicious use of north facing windows will ensure the
capture of an appropriate amount of winter sun to warm the house in winter, whilst minimal
glazing to the east and west will limit entry of harsh summer morning and afternoon sun.

Windows to the south should be sufficient to allow for natural light and ventilation whilst
minimising heat loss. Shade during summer months is just as critical and can be achieved
without compromising winter sun penetration by fixed or movable external louvres, overhanging
eaves or awnings. Griff Morris from Perth architects company, Solar Dwellings, says
"Energy efficient design is more than just putting in the right appliances and a bit of insulation.
You can make a world of difference with a little common sense and intelligent design."
Solar Dwellngs can be found at: www.solardwellings.com.au

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A great example of wholistic sustainable approach, the Pinakarri Community: A Co-Housing
Cooperative: www.sustainability.dpc.wa.gov.au/CaseStudies/pinakarri/PinakarriCommunity.htm