11 must-have features of a sustainable house design

When planning a home renovation or construction project, one of the key elements you should consider is sustainability. Sustainable houses are designed to optimise energy and water use, ensuring that you pay less for utilities. They’re also better for the environment since they consume fewer resources.

In this blog, we’ll share 11 must-have features of a sustainable house design. With these, you can ensure that your future home is good for your family and the environment.

Let’s begin!

1. Location and size

The first step to having a sustainable house is picking the right location. Ideally, it should be within walking distance of public transportation to lessen the need for driving.

Size is also a factor. Naturally, building a smaller house requires fewer materials and will also require less energy for heating and cooling. Carefully consider how much space you need before going for a large home.

2. Orientation and shade

A smart building designer or draftsman should orient a house in such a way that it maximises natural light. This lessens the need to turn on the lights during the day.

Additionally, the house must have architectural features that provide shade during the hotter times of the year. Examples include eaves, fences, and pergolas.

3. Sustainable building materials and construction methods

Picking the right materials is a good way to make your home more sustainable. Some examples include:

• Installing insulated windows
• Installing exterior doors that can trap cold or hot air
• Using abundant and sustainable materials like clay and concrete
• Picking sustainable wood species like cork or bamboo
• Using reclaimed materials as much as possible
• Recycling construction waste

4. Efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system

A large portion of a house’s energy consumption comes from its HVAC system. Here are some ways that you can make your HVAC system more efficient:

Zoning your home: Separate your home into zones so that you can set varying temperatures per room. That way, you don’t have to run the HVAC in rooms that are not often used, like the basement.

Adding a smart thermostat: A smart thermostat automatically adjusts the HVAC system based on your energy consumption and your preferred comfort level.

Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment: When picking which air conditioning unit to buy, make sure to pick the right size for the space. A small unit will work too hard to maintain your preferred temperature, while a large unit will leave a room damp. Check the energy-efficiency rating (EER), as well. A higher rating means greater efficiency.

5. Energy generation

Most sustainable houses have systems that they can generate electricity. Some of your options include:

Solar panels: Solar panels are composed of PV cells that absorb energy from sunlight. The energy creates electrical charges in the cell’s electric field, generating a flow of direct current (DC) electricity. A solar inverter then converts the energy into alternating current (AC) electricity that you can use to power up your home.

Small wind electric systems: Small wind systems are some of the most cost-effective home energy generators available. They’re made up of a wind turbine mounted on an elevated area to gain access to stronger winds.

Hydroelectric generators: Hydroelectric generators are powered by the natural gravitational movement of water near streams or rivers.

6. Right exterior colour

Did you know that the colour of your home exterior, including the roof, can have a huge impact on how hot or cool your house is? Darker colours keep the house warm, while lighter colours keep it cool. Pick the right colour for your home exterior, depending on your local climate.

7. Excellent insulation

With the right balance of insulation, your home can trap heat so that you don’t have to overwork your heating system.

Windows with special coatings and non-conductive frames provide excellent insulation. Aside from glazing, add curtains and blinds wherever possible.

Meanwhile, walls can be fitted with cellulose spray, sheep’s wool, and other materials with insulative properties.

8. LED lighting fixtures

LED lighting fixtures are more energy-efficient and long-lasting compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. They’re also brighter and come in a fun range of colours.

9. Energy-efficient appliances

Using energy-efficient home appliances with high energy ratings typically requires less electricity to operate. This is important, especially for appliances that are always turned on, such as refrigerators, air conditioning units, water heaters, and electric car charging stations.

It’s also good to look into looking at smart technology for appliances and devices. Smart technology gives you a clear picture of your energy consumption and also automates temperature control.

10. Water-saving plumbing fixtures

It’s predicted that the climate emergency may cause more extreme flooding and drought within this decade. That’s why it’s important to start upgrading your plumbing system so that it can conserve as much water as possible.

One way you can do that is by switching to water-saving plumbing fixtures. Examples include:

Low-flow showerheads

Water-saving taps

Toilets with double-flush systems

Toilets with built-in faucets that you can use to wash your hands

Automated irrigation systems

Aside from having these fixtures, sustainable homes typically have a rainwater harvester. This water it gathers can be used for flushing toilets, washing clothes, and cleaning the car.

11. Sustainable landscaping

One often overlooked aspect of designing a sustainable house is sustainable landscaping. This means choosing plants and vegetation that naturally thrive in your local climate and land type. This reduces the amount of water and resources you need to care for the plants.

It’s also a good idea to maintain a small vegetable garden. This isn’t only a smart way to save money on ingredients, but it’s also a great way to relieve stress.

12. Low-impact decorating materials

When designing a sustainable house, you should carefully consider every aspect of the home, including the finishes and decor. Consider the following:

Wood and textiles: Wood and textiles used for finishes must be sourced responsibly. If possible, use second-hand or reclaimed items.

Paint, varnishes, wallpaper, sealants: Pick products with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are gases that may be harmful to our health and may also exist as pollutants in the air.

Carpeting and rugs: Ensure that these items are sourced sustainably and that they are biodegradable.

Choose a sustainable design for your home

A sustainable house design helps save energy and has a minimal impact on the environment. Always consider these sustainable house features when planning your next home renovation or construction project.