Is north the top of the image? Meaning the block has an eastern frontage.
If so, the easement will be in the north side of the block, which is the perfect…

I haven't used homeone much in the last few years, but have read some horror stories about huge bills for in-slab hydronic heating.
The culprits usually seem to be poorly insulated…

For Perth, the government's 'Your Home' website recommends a minimum of R4.1 for the roof/ceiling, R2.8 for the walls
https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation

The one main advantage of corner blocks on the southern side of the road is that they have great access to northern light. As they will not be overshadowed by…

How far along in the planning process are you Kelsey?
The most important thing to do when planning a home is to orientate or correctly. That is, locate living areas (&…

What is the orientation of the block?
It's a very good idea to face the living areas (& a large proportion of the glazing) to the north. Minimising western (& to…

As I said, I'd consider rearranging the living areas, so there's a window facing east, the hill. Probably the same for the master bed. I'd also consider rotating the garage…

I'd assume that kline is talking about the home being orientated correctly. That is, living areas (& a large proportion of glazing) facing north, limited western (& eastern) glazing. Orientation…

Firstly, what climate are you in? What's appropriate for Hobart certainly isn't appropriate for Cairns.
A pavilion home is probably a great idea in warmer climates, as cross-ventilation will be aided.
But…

Laros is selling them for $1,600 a pair.
https://shop.laros.com.au/shop/energy-r ... on-system/

A pair of Lunos e2's costs around $1,600 I believe.

What state are you in OP?
Like gogo65, I thought it was possible to have an attached granny flat, in NSW at least.
Haven't looked into it for a few years though.

Air tightness is very important in an energy efficient build, & therefore so is ventilation.
But if you're wanting to build an energy efficient home, I'd certainly be looking at using…

Agree. Also anything below about 3 ACH will need mechanical ventilation. But for 2-3 ACH is be looking at decentralised HRV.

Science.
Hahaha.
I have a degree in science, does my vote count

Pretty rubbish article I think.

Yeah, I think it's critical to get independent inspections done at important stages of the build. I wouldn't be relying on the builder's integrity for the biggest purchase you'll probably…

I'm not an expert - but have a keen interest in this field - & am honestly flabbergasted that somebody producing these plans would say they an architect that …

I highly recommend that you read the government's Your Home website (or book, if you'd prefer to have a hard copy). Australia's guide to environmentally sustainable homes.
Start with the 'passive…

You're a little late to the party. You really should have thought of this before purchasing your block.
Ideally you want your living areas, & a large proportion to face north.…

Welcome to the forum Manny,
Firstly I'll mention that many people remove details of where they are building, for security reasons. Not really a big deal yet. But if you post…

BecW, which direction does the block face. ie, what frontage, where is north?
Depending on which direction the slope falls, you might have great northern light, or you might be overshadowed.

They all look like very minimal upgrades. As you can see from the ROI, financially none of them are worth it.
You haven't really said much about your double glazing. What…

Firstly, unless you're in a very warm climate, I wouldn't be putting a verandah on the northern side of the home. This will result in too much shade in winter.…

Personally, I'd get an induction cooktop.
• Sensitive temperature control.
• Fast reaction time, like gas.
• Far easier to clean than gas.
Actually, if ditch the gas connection to the home altogether! Building…

Personally, of be aiming for quality, not quantity.
40-45sq is pretty huge. Close to double the average Australian home, which build the largest homes in the world.
Not only do larger home…

Agree with Stewie, western bedrooms are not a good idea.
If possible I'd be trying to flip the rear of the plan, so that all the bedrooms are on the east,…

Which direction does the house face, ie. where is north in the image?
Orientation is absolutely critical when it comes to energy efficiency & comfort.
https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/orientation

Jeez I hate lots of volume builders. You do your best to learn about energy efficient building design (like passive solar design) - because many builders still don't seem to…