North Carlton Green House
Design Philosophy
The North Carlton Green House was inspired by the clients’ intuitive connection with landscape and the sun, complemented by our innovative use of sustainable design principles. Plants were integrated into the building to create a living, breathing, sustainable space that is a delight to inhabit. A rooftop garden provides an urban oasis perched above the surrounding rooftops nestled in the tree tops.
Water consumption is minimized through collecting rainwater and re-using grey water in the garden. The gardens are watered by automated subsurface irrigation systems to minimize water lost through evaporation. Passive heating is provided by a two storey north facing void that allows sun to penetrate deep into the house heating thermal mass of exposed concrete floor and ceiling. Passive cooling is provided by windows located to catch breezes cooled by the courtyard plants and pond while a two storey void facilitates natural heat removal through stack effect.
The North Carlton Green House was inspired by the clients’ intuitive connection with landscape and the sun, complemented by our innovative use of sustainable design principles. Plants were integrated into the building to create a living, breathing, sustainable space that is a delight to inhabit. A rooftop garden provides an urban oasis perched above the surrounding rooftops nestled in the tree tops.
Water consumption is minimized through collecting rainwater and re-using grey water in the garden. The gardens are watered by automated subsurface irrigation systems to minimize water lost through evaporation. Passive heating is provided by a two storey north facing void that allows sun to penetrate deep into the house heating thermal mass of exposed concrete floor and ceiling. Passive cooling is provided by windows located to catch breezes cooled by the courtyard plants and pond while a two storey void facilitates natural heat removal through stack effect.
Sustainable Design Elements
- Passive heating through north oriented windows and courtyard
- Summer shading from deep eaves and deciduous plants
- Passive cooling through two storey void as ‘thermal chimney’
- Passive cooling through natural cross ventilation over pond in courtyard
- Thermal mass in concrete floor and ceiling
- Gas boosted solar hot water and hydronic heating system
- High performance thermal insulation and double glazing
- Rainwater collection and storage in tanks
- Grey water recycling to garden
- 35m² of garden encourages local wildlife
- Roof Garden provides insulation to rooms below
- Internal planting provides improved indoor air quality
135 St Georges Road
North Fitzroy
Victoria 3068
ph (03) 9482 3504
fax (03) 9482 3514
email info@zenarchitects.com