Who are we

We are a very small architectural practice - husband and wife - working from home.

Why did we become involved

We had already been implementing ways of reducing our emissions and wanted to share our experiences as well as realising in a systematic way that what we had been doing made sense.

Where did we start

We bought the 60 year old unrenovated house because it had excellent orientation - north-south, good possibilities for cross ventilation, solid brick.  We then renovated it, opening it up to the views both ways to the south and north, maximising daylight, ventilation and insulation.  Installed solar hot water, hydronic heating, no air conditioning.  We did install low voltage lights.

After the first few electricity bills, we saw that a lot more power was being used than before the renovation so we simply started switching off lights when not needed to the point that now we mostly use low energy floor stands.  Standby switches on the TV, microwave, washing machine etc, were turned off as well as electronic clocks.  The dryer went into the roof space storage!  The pool filter and pump running time was reduced to half.

Working from home has the advantages of being able to walk to work.  We use the car for site visits and client meetings which are usually out of peak times but we also try to have as many meetings in the office as possible.  We do not need to turn on any lights during the day because the natural light reaches so deep into the house.

Process undertaken

We also:

• Purchase recycled photocopying paper and used double-sided
• Use real cups - only use the dishwasher when full
• Stationery is generally sourced from eco suppliers
• Compost instead of adding to the landfill
• Have 100% green energy
• Have a water tank
• Aim to install photovoltaic panels in the next year.

Going through the process with the NSW Architects Registration Board confirmed that the actions we have taken were right.

Where are we now

By taking the actions outlined - most of which are not too onerous - our electricity bills have now halved!

Where are we going

This has become our way of life.  Our whole family are committed to doing their part by thinking about their actions in relation to decreasing their carbon footprints.  We started Climate Action Pittwater.  There are many groups around Australia.  To find out the closest group to where you live: www.climatemovement.org.au