Energy Efficient Home Design in South-East Qld & Northern NSW

An energy efficient home is not just about reducing running costs. It is about comfort, climate response, and creating a home that feels naturally balanced throughout the year.

Project Habitation specialises in designing homes that work with Brisbane’s subtropical climate. We focus on passive design principles, natural light, ventilation, and thoughtful material choices to create spaces that feel calm, comfortable, and effortless to live in.

Climate Responsive Design at the Heart of Every Project

A truly energy efficient home starts long before any appliances, solar systems, or mechanical solutions are considered. Good design comes first. We focus on:

• Northern orientation for warmth and natural light

• Cross ventilation and passive cooling

• Deep overhangs and shading to control summer heat

• Thermal comfort in living, sleeping, and transition spaces

• Openings that frame breezes and encourage airflow

• Layouts that support seasonal living patterns

These principles guide all of our design work, whether it is a new home or an alterations and additions project.

Designing Homes That Feel Good Year Round

Energy efficient design is ultimately about creating a comfortable home.
Your home should feel naturally cool in summer, warm in winter, and pleasant throughout the day without constant mechanical intervention. We consider:

• Window placement and glazing performance

• External shading and landscape integration

• Material thermal properties

• Roof forms, insulation, and ventilation paths

• The movement of light and shadow across spaces

• Acoustic comfort and privacy

These elements work together to create spaces that feel calm, healthy, and deeply connected to the subtropical climate.

Passive Design Is More Than a Checklist

It is an approach that influences:

• How your home sits on the site

• The orientation of living and outdoor spaces

• The way circulation flows

• How rooms are zoned for privacy, light, and comfort

• The connection between indoor and outdoor living

• The long term performance and value of your home

Each decision has a cumulative effect on comfort, sustainability, and the lived experience of your spaces.

Advanced Energy Modelling When Needed

For clients wanting deeper analysis, we can coordinate:

• NatHERS assessments

• Thermal modelling

• WUFI moisture modelling

• Material and insulation comparisons

• Shading studies

• Energy performance simulations

These tools guide decisions and help optimise thermal performance based on your priorities and the characteristics of your site.

Energy Efficiency in Renovations and Extensions

Older homes often struggle with heat retention, airflow, and natural light.
A renovation or extension is the perfect moment to address these issues. We can improve:

• Cross ventilation

• Shading and passive cooling

• Insulation and thermal comfort

• Orientation of new living spaces

• Privacy and outlook

• Indoor and outdoor living zones

Even small design changes can significantly improve comfort and reduce energy demands.

Why Energy Efficient Design Matters

An energy efficient home:

• Is more comfortable to live in

• Costs less to run

• Is healthier and more enjoyable day to day

• Performs better long term

• Adds value and longevity to your home

• Reduces reliance on air conditioning and artificial lighting

It benefits your lifestyle now and the performance of your home for decades to come.

Why Choose Project Habitation

• Over a decade specialising in bespoke residential design.

• Master of Architecture and interior design qualifications with single dwelling expertise.

• A design philosophy grounded in subtropical living and climate response.

• A refined, boutique experience from first meeting to final drawings.

• A home designed for both beauty and comfort, not just a set of plans.

• Your home will be unique, site specific, and designed with intention.