Sustainable house design features checklist

From Greenlivingpedia, a wiki on green living, building and energy

This article summaries features and opportunities for maximising the sustainable design features of a building.

• Passive solar design - thermal mass, north facing glass with shading systems. Use recycled content (e.g. GB slag blend) for concrete slabs.

• Plantation or recycled timber only.

• Pendant lighting - CF or LED bulbs. Use motion sensitive switches to activate and turn off where appropriate.

• Energy generation: Solar panels, wind power, micro hydro, depending on location.

• Solar hot water with electric boosting

• Rainwater collection system and tanks (10,000 litres per bedroom)

• Double glazing for windows

• Triple glazing for roof windows

• Low toxicity paints and floor finishes

• Insulation - roof, wall and floor

• Solar hot water with gas boosting

• Energy efficient appliances - 5 star or better (dishwasher, fridge, stove, airconditioner if fitted)

• Grey water treatment or diversion to garden

• Low water garden

• Food garden

• Cross flow ventilation

• "Solar chimney" incorporated in design to naturally vent hot air

• Appropriate sizing of rooms and overall building.

• Two or three storey configuration (e.g. cellar, living level, loft) to minimise footprint of dwelling.

• Ceiling fans for cooling.