Little changes can have a big impact. By using sustainable timber instead of MDF for skirting boards and architraves and low VOC paint on internal and external walls, we’ve reduced the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These can be harmful to construction workers and occupants, and can have a damaging effect on the environment. So you can breath a little easier knowing nobody’s health is any worse off.
Good things come in small packages. This innovative home aims to have net-zero emissions and be water self-sufficient; as well as minimise waste. Modest in proportions, but ambitious in intent, the
Net-zero Emissions Home will challenge the way the building industry thinks about homes.
Showcasing leading-edge design and technologies, this home will bring its innovations into the mainstream. It will put a new face on the current perception of a truly sustainable home, proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.
Just some of its features will include a photovoltaic system to generate energy from the sun, onsite grey water recycling and a productive garden.
The Net Zero Emissions home is also a fully adaptable house. An Adaptable House is one which is able to respond effectively to changing household needs without requiring costly and energy intensive alterations.
Some of the adaptable features in the Net Zero Emissions Home include:
- Level access to entry door
- Universal garage – 3.8m wide and 6.0m long with higher garage door and side mounted motor
- Kitchen design and layout compliant with adaptable code. Circulation space, work surface areas and heights allow for full wheelchair access and use
- Bathroom design compliant with adaptable code. Circulation space, manoeuvring space and fittings allows for full wheelchair access and use
- Large stacker doors to garage internal wall helps to open up the garage and connect it to the rest of the house
- Translucent garage door brings adequate light into the garage
- Wider external (920mm) and internal (870mm) doors
- Bedroom 1 designed to universal size
- Wall strengthening around toilet and shower with grab rails around toilet
- Adaptable toilet allows ease of use of toilet by the elderly or disabled
- Lower height of kitchen benches and 1.5m between benches allows adequate circulation space in kitchen for wheelchair movement and heights appropriate for wheelchair users
- R10 rated slip resistant floor finish to bathroom, kitchen and garage which helps minimise risk of slip and fall of elderly occupants
- Slab step down to wet areas and garage allows floor levels to be flush
- Door handles, switches, taps at easy reach heights and distances Allow easy reach and easily operable for people in wheelchairs
Click here to download the Net Zero Emissions Home brochure
Click here to download the Benchmark fact sheet