EAST GEELONG RESIDENCE  1

The challenge of how to respect a late 1800’s cottage, yet update it to year 2000 living, environmental and comfort standards were achieved with this extensive alterations and additions project.

This family home project created an authentically renovated bedroom zone for the original four rooms of the cottage, and a timeless spacious and modern rear living extension over two levels.

Subtle links between old and new were created throughout by simple means such as internal and external paint colours, lighting, use of reclaimed timber for joinery and the introduction of more natural light into bedrooms.

While the orientation of the site was not ideal, the provision of huge north facing highlight windows to the rear extension introduced streaming northern winter sun and light.  A polished concrete floor, double glazed windows, high levels of insulation and extensive draught proofing combined to produce an extremely comfortable and energy efficient living zone.

Primary elements include:

A grid connected solar power system, energy efficient appliances, heating, hot water and lighting to produce a total package that:

Cut energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70%.

Saved up to 60% in energy costs.

Maintained indoor temperatures during winter at 16 C or more and summer temperatures rarely above 26  C.