NatHERS Rating 🏠 Renovate: 7.2 Stars | Rebuild: 7.3 Stars
At New Lambton Heights in Newcastle, NSW, Archispectrum presented two design pathways for the same site, one to renovate and one to rebuild. Positioned on a sloped block with west-facing living areas and persistent damp issues, the original home highlighted how poor orientation and design choices can significantly impact indoor comfort and energy use.
SUHO provided design optimisation support across both schemes. Our sustainability consultants reviewed the layout and proposed targeted, cost-effective strategies to improve performance. These included reverse brick veneer construction to introduce thermal mass, split-level airflow to boost ventilation, insulation upgrades in moisture-prone areas, and zoning strategies to better separate living and sleeping spaces.
In the renovation design, high ceilings and a covered alfresco area welcomed natural light and improved airflow, while the rebuild reoriented key living zones to reduce western heat gain. Both approaches significantly lowered heating and cooling demands, resulting in more comfortable and energy-efficient outcomes.
The results were impressive: a NatHERS rating of 7.2 Stars for the Renovation and 7.3 Stars for the Rebuild. This project clearly demonstrates that with informed, early-stage energy advice, both renovation and rebuild options can achieve excellent sustainability outcomes.
Planning your own renovation or rebuild? Reach out to our team at residential@suho.com.au to learn how design optimisation can enhance the performance and comfort of your home.
