Building eco-friendly homes is essential for creating a sustainable future. At Anchor Homes, we believe that sustainable living begins with thoughtful design, responsible material choices, and energy-efficient practices. Our homes are built to last, incorporating innovative features that not only enhance comfort but also significantly reduce environmental impact.

Did you know the National Construction Code was updated this year with new energy efficiency standards? As of May 1, 2024, the minimum energy rating for new homes in Victoria and New South Wales has increased from 6-stars to-7 stars.

At Anchor Homes, we ensure all of our projects meet the updated energy standards, providing a 7-star rating that complies with all requirements. We’ve also collaborated with clients who prefer an even higher star rating to align with their commitment to sustainable living.

In this article, we're going to take you through some choices you can make to make your new home build or project more sustainable.

1. Orientation

Orientation is a crucial factor in the design of your sustainable home. By strategically positioning your home on the site, you can maximise natural light and heat from the sun while minimising heat loss during colder months. Homes that face north can harness sunlight effectively, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.

At Anchor Homes, our design team can help you determine the best orientation for your new build, ensuring optimal energy efficiency and comfort throughout the year. 

2. Efficient Glazing

Glazed windows and doors are the eyes of the home, bringing in light and fresh air while connecting the interior to the outdoors. However, they can also be a significant source of heat loss and gain. To address this, it’s vital to select the right glazing systems tailored to your home’s orientation and climate.

At Anchor Homes, all our homes are fitted with double-glazed awning windows & sliding doors as standard, ensuring optimal thermal performance and energy efficiency. Our team ensures that each window is strategically placed to maximise natural light and ventilation while minimising energy consumption.

3. Enhance Insulation 

When constructing a new home, prioritising insulation is vital for achieving maximum energy efficiency. High-quality insulation in walls, roofs, and floors helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems. 

At Anchor Homes, insulation is included in our standard inclusions; however, if you prefer enhanced insulation for added comfort, we can provide an upgraded option to suit your needs.

Investing in superior insulation not only promotes sustainability but also contributes to long-term savings on energy bills, making it an essential aspect of your new home build.

4. Add Sustainable Materials

Incorporating sustainable materials into your new home can enhance both its efficiency and aesthetic appeal. We offer a range of sustainable materials, but here are our three most popular client selections:

• Colorbond Steel: Used for roofing and cladding, this material includes recycled content and is fully recyclable.
• Composite decking: Constructed from recycled wood fibers and plastics, it offers a robust and eco-friendly alternative for outdoor spaces.
• Recycled timber benchtops: These add warmth and character to your home while supporting responsible sourcing and waste reduction.

At Anchor Homes, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of options during the pre-construction phase at your Colour and Specifications appointment, allowing you to create a stylish and eco-friendly living space.

5. Roof Colour

Roof colour plays a significant role in energy efficiency, and a white roof is a simple yet powerful way to reflect heat and reduce cooling costs. This cooling solution helps keep indoor temperatures down, particularly in the hot Australian climate, without the need for excessive air conditioning. By incorporating a white roof into your home design, you can significantly reduce your energy usage and carbon footprint.

6. Sustainable Landscaping Practices

Your home's exterior plays a vital role in sustainability. Incorporating native plants in your landscaping minimises water usage and reduces the need for irrigation.  Creating outdoor spaces that support biodiversity, such as butterfly gardens or pollinator-friendly landscapes, not only enhances the beauty of your home but also contributes to the health of the local ecosystem.

7. Rainwater Tanks

Rainwater is a valuable, free resource that can help you save on water bills and maintain a thriving garden. Installing rainwater tanks can reduce your mains water supply significantly, especially during dry periods. By capturing and using rainwater for irrigation and non-potable purposes, you can lower your environmental footprint and contribute to sustainable living.

8. Energy-Efficient Appliances

Choosing energy-efficient appliances is a smart investment for any homeowner. These appliances can account for a substantial portion of your household energy use, but the savings on utility bills can offset the initial costs over time. Look for energy and water efficiency star ratings to guide your selections. Options like water-efficient dishwashers and washing machines are excellent choices that contribute to a more sustainable home.

9. Harness the Sun - Add Solar

Australia’s abundant sunshine makes it ideal for harnessing solar energy. A solar system can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions over its lifetime, making it a wise investment for environmentally conscious homeowners. With the right setup, solar energy not only lowers your energy bills but also contributes to a cleaner planet.

At Anchor Homes, all our designs are compatible with solar panel systems, but if our clients are opting to include solar they must arrange installation after handover. Additionally, we offer the option to build off-grid homes, providing even greater energy independence and sustainability.

10. Go Modular

Modular homes not only look fantastic, but their construction method also offers numerous sustainable benefits. Approximately 95% of the building process takes place offsite, minimising disturbance to the environment and local habitats. On-site work is limited to about 6 to 10 weeks (depending on the project type), which is significantly less time than a conventionally built home. Additionally, our footing and sub-floor design requires fewer penetrations into the ground, further reducing site impact.

Another major advantage of modular construction is waste reduction, which allows for more efficient material storage and management. With a lighter carbon footprint and a mindful construction approach, you can feel confident in your choice of a modular home from Anchor Homes.

Building a Better Future

Creating a sustainable home is not just a trend—it's a commitment to a better future for our planet and generations to come. By embracing eco-friendly practices, choosing sustainable materials, and implementing smart design techniques, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

At Anchor Homes, we are dedicated to helping you build a home that meets the highest standards of sustainability. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to discuss your vision for your new home.