Form and function trumped size when it came to renovating this weatherboard cottage in Wollongong that had seen better days.
Envirotecture wrung every benefit possible from the modest budget, delivering new spaces and a massive upgrade in comfort and energy efficiency.
The large north-facing backyard was a big plus for its owners, who could envisage the site’s potential for extending the house and planting gardens. They approached Envirotecture because of their interest in a sustainable renovation and got everything they wished for and more.
Clever design created generous new spaces in a 53m2 addition—a smaller footprint than the clients initially had in mind. A bedroom, bathroom and laundry run along the eastern side while an open plan kitchen, dining room and sitting room are warmed by winter sun. French doors lead out to a large covered deck with clearlite roofing for winter warmth and canvas shade sails protecting from summer sun. A new sheltered courtyard between these extensions basks in morning sun. Meanwhile, unsympathetic layers of older renovations were pared back, with a closed-in sunroom removed to restore the period wraparound verandah.
Phase change materials were used underfloor in selected areas, providing thermal mass that acts like a giant battery for storing and releasing winter warmth. The entire house was fully insulated and new double-glazed timber framed windows installed. Windows allow for effective cross-ventilation with ceiling fans providing the only extra summer cooling needed.
A heat pump hot water heater was installed, along with an induction cooktop. A 6.6kW PV array was installed following the renovation, reducing supply from the grid by a third. Gas space heating was replaced, making for a fully electric household.
This project was designed in 2015. Envirotecture would now use Passivhaus Planning Package software (PHPP) to energy model a major renovation such as this, even if the project wasn’t seeking Passivhaus certification. PHPP accurately predicts energy use and people’s comfort and helps architects get the best performance for the client’s budget.
The old house was very draughty, cold, not much sun came in… Now it’s so beautiful and we’re happy with the look and design and also the functionality. It’s so comfortable! And there’s been many a Christmas out here [on the back deck] with our whole family.
Amy
