Earlier today, we visited a home in Cape Paterson built with sustainable design principles. We sat down with Tad from the Adapt Design Group, the building designer, to learn more about the key features of sustainable living and life in Cape Paterson. Tad brings a deep-seated belief in the power of unique, common sense, and energy efficient design that enhances lifestyle and well-being.
Tad, what has been your inspiration for this design?
The home was built primarily for a family in a costal setting. The open plan design allows you to be in the kitchen or dining room, and still able to keep an eye on the kids. As both a builder and a designer, I believe in energy efficient design that sits in balance with the environment. The majority of the rooms in the house are designed for a northerly aspect which results in a light, airy feel to the home through the abundance of natural light. 
How does sustainable design impact on the heating and cooling?
Cross-flow ventilation assists in keeping temperatures cool in summer, making the most of the sea breeze. The awnings downstairs protect the living areas from the harshness of the summer sun. The front courtyard is sheltered by a louvered awning pergola that delivers filtered light and warmth into the living and dining room. The basic premise is that the angle of the slats allows for shading of the summer sun and maximising the winter sun. 
Can you tell us about the kitchen living design?
The kitchen bench tops feature stainless steel and glass splash backs with birch ply cabinetry. The north facing design invites the sun into the living area, capturing light in both the living, dining and kitchen areas.The entire home allows you to enjoy the outdoors and natural elements whilst being inside. 
What was the brief for the bedrooms and upper level living?
The bedrooms and wet areas have deliberately been made compact. The brief called for flexibility to accommodate a private area for reading, a study for those working from home as well as three bedrooms. 
Why is a home study an essential room now in every new home?
Today many people choose to work from home. A single space may act at different times as a home office, a teenage retreat, a family study or a bedroom for an elderly relative. An adaptable house accommodates lifestyle changes without the need to demolish or substantially modify the existing structure and services. 
How does sustainable design meet the changes in the way we live?
Australian demographics are changing rapidly, with average households becoming both smaller and older as an increasing number of people live independently in their later years. Therefore the balance between home and work life varies in the design choices we make when designing sustainable homes. 
What is the natural temperature of the home?
During the day, the temperature of the home naturally sits between 17 and 24 degrees. The hydronic heating system throughout provides additional radiant heat through the cold winter periods and an air conditioner assists for the extreme heat of the summer. 
How important is the location of the bedrooms?
Bedrooms can be spaces for rest, work, storage and play. The location of bedrooms in your house is crucial. Upstairs bedrooms can be beneficial in cool climates as the home's interior heat will collect on the upper floor. 
What drew you to Cape Paterson for family living?
Cape Paterson enjoys a unique combination of coastal living with easy access to beautiful family-friendly beaches; however, the size of the town and existing commercial infrastructure keeps it almost a wonderfully kept secret. The convenience of the commercial town of Wonthaggi, and further coastal exploration and shopping areas of Inverloch within 10 minutes of Cape Paterson, offers plenty of options for all members of the family. The choice of high standard government, independent and Catholic schools, all within 40 minutes of the town, allowed us flexibility as our family grew. 
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