The NSW Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is discussing introducing stricter requirements for new homes from October 1 this year, and one of these requirements is for lighter roof colours. This is aimed at reducing the urban heat island effect and improving energy efficiency in new homes.
In this blog post, we'll explore the exciting implications of this requirement for design and how it could lead to the development of a unique, modern style of urban coastal design.
The urban heat island effect is a significant concern for cities, as urban areas tend to be significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to heat absorption and retention by building materials and urban infrastructure. The use of lighter roof colours reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat, thereby reducing the impact of the urban heat island effect and improving energy efficiency in new homes.
Traditionally, darker roof colours have been used and preferred in many Sydney home designs, dating back to the early days of the colony. Black slate was seen as the aspirational roofing material, and later, red terracotta roofs became ubiquitous in Sydney. However, the upcoming requirement for lighter roof colours offers new design opportunities that will not only benefit the enviorement but also introduce a fresh aesthetic to Sydney's residential landscape.
Design Director for Hall & Hart, Nick Rawson, believes that this requirement is an exciting opportunity to develop a new, unique style of urban coastal design. This style will incorporate lighter colour palettes and move away from more traditional styles such as Provincial and Hamptons, while still retaining the individuality and character of each home. Nick's design team has already developed some inspiring designs, as showcased in this blog post.
The use of lighter colours in home design has many benefits beyond compliance with BASIX requirements:
Reduce the urban heat island effect: Lighter colored roofs reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, which means they can help to mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Improve energy efficiency: Lighter colored roofs can reduce the amount of heat that is transferred into a home, which can lower cooling costs and improve energy efficiency.
Increase comfort: By reducing the amount of heat that is absorbed into a home, a lighter colored roof can help to create a more comfortable indoor environment, particularly during the hot summer months.
Extend the life of the roof: Lighter colored roofs tend to last longer than darker colored roofs because they experience less thermal stress and UV damage
(Hall & Hart Design Inspiration)
Nick’s team is developing designs that will be a combination of the Hamptons and Queenslander styles, with a modern take that includes enclosed balconies, courtyards, and celestial windows to flood homes with natural light. The move towards this new style is an exciting development for the Australian building industry, as it represents an opportunity to create homes that are both energy-efficient and stylish, incorporating the unique natural environment of coastal Australia into their design.
(Hall & Hart Design Inpsiration)
One of our premium suppliers, Bluescoop are dedicated to an ongoing journey of collaboration, research, and development to introduce cutting-edge innovation into their COLORBOND® steel products. Discover COLORBOND® steel cool roofing colours that help address environmental issues such as Urban Heat Islands. Click here for cool roofing resources.
Related articles:
BASIX #1 Orientation. Harnessing the Sun's Movement
BASIX #2 Windows. The Importance of Window Selection in Achieving a 7-Star Home
BASIX #3 Insulation. Unveiling the Power of Insulation and Wrapping
BASIX #4 Frames. The Environmental Impact of Metal Frames
BASIX #5 Lighter Roof Colours. How Lighter Roof Colours Will Impact Homes
BASIX #6 Ceiling Fans. How Ceiling Fans Can Enhance Your Home's Aesthetics and Energy Rating
BASIX #7 Energy. Balancing Low Carbon Materials and Operational Technologies
BASIX #8 Understanding Whole of Home Measurement
BASIX #9 Process. The Impact of an Efficient Design Process in Achieving NatHERS 7-Star Rating
BASIX #10 Let's Build a Brighter Future Together! Your Contribution
Hall & Hart: How Energy-Efficient Homes Can Be Affordable
Hall & Hart. Sustainability - Making a Difference to Climate Change One Home at a Time
Hall & Hart. Starting Our Journey with Carbonhalo