Climate Context

• Round Mountain has a humid subtropical climate with:
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Mild winters
  • Year-round sunshine
  • Climate-responsive design improves comfort and reduces household running costs.

House Location

• Identify north, east, south, and west on your lot before designing.
• Understanding orientation helps optimise sunlight and cooling breezes.
• Climate-responsive homes are achievable on all lot orientations.

House Design

• Position living areas on the north and east sides with large windows for best light and temperature control.
• Use large windows and doors connected to covered outdoor areas to enhance airflow and extend living spaces.
• Locate non-habitable rooms (bathrooms, laundry, garage) on the south and west sides to:
• Reduce afternoon heat gain
• Shield the home from cold south-west winds
• 450 mm minimum eaves are required on habitable rooms, especially to western and southern sides.
• Increased setbacks between homes can improve airflow and garden space.
• Open-plan layouts encourage natural cross-ventilation.
• Ceiling fans improve indoor and outdoor air circulation.
• Whirlybirds help remove heat from roof spaces in summer.

Building Materials

• Lighter colours reflect heat and help keep homes cooler.
• Darker colours absorb heat and increase indoor temperatures.
• Lightweight materials (e.g. timber, fibre cement) can improve comfort compared to traditional brick and tile construction.
• Contain recycled or renewable content.
• Are sourced locally where possible to reduce transportation impacts.
• Have a lower environmental impact during manufacturing.
• Are durable, easy to maintain and built to last.
• Can be reused or recycled at the end of their life.
• Have recognised environmental certifications from independent organisations.
• Consider using low-VOC paints, adhesives, and sealants to help improve indoor air quality within your home.

Landscaping

• Use trees with large canopies to:
• Provide summer shade
• Reduce glare
• Tree species and placement should support cooling breezes.

Water Tanks

• Rainwater tanks are encouraged and:
• Harvest rainwater
• Reduce stormwater runoff
• Lower reliance on mains water
• Reduce water bills
• Suitable for non-potable uses, including garden irrigation.

Water Efficient Fixtures

• Showerheads with a flow rate of less than 7.5 litres per minute.
• Bathroom, kitchen and laundry taps with a flow rate of less than 6 litres per minute.
• Dishwashers that use 14 litres of water or less per cycle.
• Washing machines that use 90 litres of water or less per cycle.

Solar Panels

• Solar panels help:
• Lower electricity costs
• Reduce carbon footprint
• Solar batteries provide energy independence and reduce reliance on the electricity grid.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

• Energy-efficient appliances:
• Reduce household energy bills
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions
• Minimise environmental impact