Townsville four-bedroom home
Overview
The home was developed from the winning design by Felix Riedweg of Felix Riedwig Architects in the 1999 Queensland Master Builders Association Smart Housing Design Awards. It incorporates features that make it more livable, safe and secure while reducing costs and environmental impact.
- 4 bedrooms with built-ins
- 2 bathrooms (ensuite off bedroom 1 is accessible from hallway)
- open plan living areas
- patio off living area
- secure garage
- backyard shed
- raised planter boxes
- louvre windows
- gable ventilation
- security screens
- fan lights & wind catchers
- light weight construction
- insulation
This house is:
Resource-efficient, reducing energy costs and improving living comfort.
- The house is oriented north/south to catch prevailing breezes and reduce heat loads.
- Roof and wall insulation keeps the interior cool.
- Light colour roof tiling deflects heat in summer.
- Water saving shower rose and taps are installed.
- Natural ventilation and light is achieved through the positioning of windows and doors.
- Shading over the windows protects them from direct sunlight.
Universally designed, which makes the home comfortable for people through different stages in their lives.
- Doorways have low thresholds.
- Space around furniture and wide hallways (1200mm) allows for easy manoeuvrability.
- Bathrooms have hobless showers and reinforced walls.
Cost-efficient over time - extra initial cost can be quite minor compared to the saving that will be generated over time.
- Durable, low maintenance materials have been used throughout the home.
- It is easy and cost effective to modify the home as needs change.
- A termite management system is in place.
- Garden beds are kept away from the house.
Safe and secure, incorporating features to improve security against crime and reduce the occurrence of common household accidents.
- Child-resistant locks are installed on the pantry and low storage doors.
- Hot water outlets are fitted with tempering devices. Hot and cold water taps are clearly marked.
- Reduced-slip floors are used throughout the home.
- Doors and windows are fitted with security screens and locks.
- Residents can view the front and back gardens and street from the main living areas.
Last updated March 2007
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