Sustainable House Day, Toowoomba, QLD

 

Sustainable Home Toowoomba   Sustainable Home Toowoomba has been specifically designed and oriented to take advantage of Toowoomba’s climate. As well as minimizing your impact on the environment, these homes are practical, comfortable to live in, and cost-efficient to run and maintain. ·         Passive design principles position windows and doors to capture the sun and breezes, eliminating the need for air-conditioning and most heating ·         Flexible floor plan and efficient use of space reduces overall size, cost, use of materials and maintenance ·         The thermal mass of the foundations keeps the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer ·         Water use is significantly reduced with four rainwater tanks, dual-flush toilets, slow-flow shower roses and water-saving appliances ·         Photovoltaic cells on the roof harness the sun’s energy to power up to 60% of the home’s electricity ·         Full roof and wall insulation keeps the heat in during winter, and out in summer ·         Heavy drapes, pelmets and shutters stop warm air escaping from the home in winter, and block heat entering the home in summer ·         Placement of verandahs, garages and bathrooms on the south and west buffers other rooms from hot sun and/or cold winds ·         A solar hot water system saves about $300 a year off the electricity bill and cuts the home’s greenhouse gas emissions by up to a third ·         Use of non-toxic materials promote good air quality within the home ·         Use of materials from renewable resources, sourced locally where possible ·         Consideration for the future needs of occupants by ensuring ease of access for those with limited mobility ·         Water-wise plants and extensive mulching to suit Toowoomba’s gardening conditions ·         Repairs and ongoing maintenance costs are reduced through the use of low-maintenance materials   Sustainable Home Toowoomba is located at 308 Ramsay Street and is open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.  For more information about the home, or to book a group tour, contact project officer Louise Mayne on 4688 6426.