Energy efficient design
At the macro level, sustainable housing involves a shift from the urban sprawl (which is evident in most Australian cities) to an emphasis on medium density and light urban development, and on sustainable cities in which things like transport and amenities are accessible and well-planned.
In terms of individual dwellings, there should be recognition of the entire life cycle of a building as the most important single goal of sustainable architecture.
From that starting point, architects aiming to design energy efficient homes have several strategies at their disposal including the use of double glazing on windows, insulation, solar panels, and in-slab heating. Similarly, they have access to innovative products like Hempcrete, which is made from hemp, lime, and water; or rammed earth and straw-bale which can help reduce the thermal mass of a house. All can play a part in helping sustainable house ideas become reality.