In-house inspiration

AFTER being confined to our homes for months, many local people will have realised their houses are cold, draughty and expensive to heat and cool.

Whether you’re looking for design concepts, independent expert advice or just some DIY ideas, Sustainable House Day for Geelong and beyond will showcase inspiring solutions, saving resources and money.

Passive solar design, thermal mass, insulation, new building practices, draught-proofing techniques, sustainable products, energy-efficient appliances, rooftop solar, battery storage, water harvesting solutions and productive gardens will all be explained in a new online format.

Geelong Sustainability (GS) has been hosting Sustainable House Day for thirteen years with support from the City of Greater Geelong and their partners.

GS president and Sustainable House Day co-ordinator Vicki Perrett said this year, in line with COVID restrictions, the community would have an opportunity to see sustainable, innovative houses and their energy-efficient features, without leaving their own homes.

“Our online event is a rich learning experience that is open to everyone,” she said.

“There are four exemplar properties and a range of case study seminars to set people up for sustainable housing success.”

Geelong Sustainability has produced preview slideshows for each house as well as 10-minute video tours narrated by the homeowners.

GS will host eight one-hour Zoom seminars over the Geelong Sustainable House Day weekend on October 16 and 17.

The Saturday specialist seminar topics include practical advice on selecting building materials and getting off gas as well as cost-effective retrofitting.

Participants will be able to submit questions online before and during the event and each session will be recorded for future playback.

“Spring is the ideal home improvement season, so regardless of whether you are planning a new home or seeking ways to retrofit your current house, there’s lots to see and learn in this year’s event,” Ms Perrett said.

“Discover the importance of orientation and design by touring the sun-filled passive solar homes. Learn about contemporary building techniques and energy-efficient products from experts.

“Connect with homeowners, listen to their stories and benefit from their insights.”

Find out more and book online on the Geelong Sustainability website.