Ceres Eco Living Centre

An existing weatherboard building altered and renovated to become a sustainably designed display home and class room. The existing building had little physical or visual connection to the outdoors. The existing building did incorporate some passive design features, but these features were old and required upgrading to current living standards. A new new air lock was built to define the entry into the building and for thermal efficiency. Materials are typically FSC or GECA certified, finishes are natural or low VOC.

Energy

• review of thermal efficiency of house including upgrade of insulation and draft proofing
• review of existing hydronic heating for thermal performance was undertaken and the existing system was upgraded
• low energy light fittings were selected – compact fluorescent and low energy globes only

Waste

• installation of grey water diverter from laundry and shower for use as subsoil irrigation in garden

Water

• water collection for use in garden
• water collection for domestic use
• installation of water efficient appliances

Materials

• recycled timber floorboards
• recycled cork flooring
• natural oil floor finishes
• natural paints in low wear areas
• low VOC paints used in high wear areas
• E0 cabinet substrates
• re-use of existing kitchen benchtops
• low VOC carpets
• natural fabrics and dyes used on blinds and upholstery
• local products were chosen where possible