‘Energy efficiency is the main solar passive design principle,’ he says. ‘I always tell clients that if we keep a home well-sealed and insulated with a good quality glass then we can access all the winter sun [coming] into the home and keep all the summer sun out.’
In addition, Craig says that the clients set particular construction conditions. They specified the use of low volatile organic compounds (VOC) in paints, carpets and furnishings. They were also concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the house.
‘To alleviate these worries, we ensured that all wiring and modems were stored at the point furthest away from sleeping/living areas. Some were placed under split-level stairs, others in the furthest away cupboards.’
Craig has been a builder since 1983. As an accredited HIA GreenSmart professional he was especially proud to add this award to the many which Living Green Designer Homes has won since it was established in 2007.
‘Our business is to design and build sustainable housing. Every award is special but this one, being both a renovation and an addition, means more because there was a degree of difficulty in getting the old to meet the new,’ he says.
Growing up as the son of a builder on the NSW Central Coast, he says that he has always been interested in sustainable construction.