Archicentre urges home design that reduces bushfire risk

AUSTRALIA’S growing towns and cities are encroaching areas most at risk of fires, and Archicentre Australia says it is important that precautions be taken to minimise the threat.

The national architect’s advisory service also maintains that these risks can be minimised through sound architectural design principles.

“The onset of warmer weather and the abundance of drying vegetation presents a risk to many residents, particularly those close to bushland or open paddocks,” Archicentre Australia director Peter Georgiev said.

“Protection from bushfires for people and property has become a significant issue and legislation is in place in most states to regulate construction in designated bushfire-prone areas.

“Engaging with an architect when planning a new home or additions to an existing residence ensures that sound design principles are incorporated to minimise the bushfire risk.

“This means that the home can appropriately respond to the environment.”

He said that before embarking on any building project, professional advice should be sought to ensure an appropriately bushfire-resistant design is put in place.

“Houses should be sited to minimise the risk – this may mean keeping away from steep hillsides where the intensity of the fire can double for each 10 degrees of slope, or ensuring enough cleared land is available between the house and the bush.”

All bushfire design principles seek to protect the home from burning debris.

“The key differences between bushfire design and traditional architectural design are that bushfire design uses a plan with a simple roofline, a minimum of angles and a range of fire-resistant alternative construction materials,” Mr Georgiev said.

“Good design for bushfire-prone areas seeks to protect the house and its occupants from the five major dangers – wind, radiant heat, direct flame, ember attack and smoke.”

To download Archicentre Australia’s Bushfire Design Guide, head to bit.ly/2Bf2vWz.