Aspect Maximiser in Maleny 2023

Aspect Maximiser in Maleny

This house is primarily designed to be a passive solar home, with emphasis on maximising winter warmth. The following all contribute:

• Selection of north facing site.
• House layout and window positioning.
• Window type and size, and glazing type.
• Breezeway and chimney effect.
• Insulation.
• Mass.
• Eave depth.
• Ceiling height.

Apart from these standard considerations, I made the unusual, and somewhat controversial, decision to have no shaded outdoor entertaining area. This was because it would have had the negative affect of limiting sun penetration in winter. Instead, the north east corner of the house opens up with large bifold doors, so that the main internal living area becomes effectively outdoor. (This has the added bonus of removing the need for an additional set of furniture.)

Other features:
Environmentally friendly cladding: Permatimber wood composite was chosen both for its use of recycled plastic and waste wood shavings, and also for its claim of non-maintenance. Since acquisition the company has modified its claims, and I have ongoing maintenance costs.

3kw PV system with additional panels to maximise winter production.

Hot water tank is stored internally both to decrease heat loss and for use in ‘free’ clothes airing.

The house is designed for flexible use. It provides for a two-bedroom-plu,us-office completely level home on the upper(street) level. The lower level could be utilised as a self contained ‘granny flat’, a teenage or parent retreat or even be utilised for a home business.

Vapour permeable wall wrap was used instead of the common (so called) breathable wrap to reduce the risk of dampness and mould within the walls. This was a major concern. See http://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/sealing-your-home

No downlights have been used to avoid negative impacts on the ceiling insulation.

Built by Ausmar Homes