You may have heard the term net zero, but what does that actually mean and why is it something to which we should aspire? Well, take a look at the Avora 34 — NSW’s first net zero display home — and all will be revealed.
“Of contemporary coastal design and suited to young families, the Avora 34 offers open-plan living, family-sized rooms, a parents’ retreat and, most importantly, sustainable living. This is a net zero home — one that is the perfect combination of style and sustainability,” explains Adam Crawford, Director, Icon Homes.
“Located in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the Warriewood display home takes style inspiration from the city, coast and nature to create the ultimate Australian home. Not only aesthetically stunning and functional for relaxed coastal living, the home is revolutionary in its use of technology to reduce carbon emissions and provide the opportunity for a net zero electricity bill. This basically means achieving a balance between emissions produced and emissions taken out of the atmosphere during day-to-day use.”
To reduce carbon emissions, a Bristile solar system was installed. This works to convert solar energy into electricity that can be used throughout the home. There are 26 solar panels installed on top of the roof, acting like a mini-power plant, which can generate enough energy to offset the electricity consumed by the house, making it a zero net home. Given the home has a flat roof, the solar panels are positioned so they can’t be seen from street level.
“In addition to the solar system, the Avora features the Bristile Sonnen battery, which optimises the performance of the solar management system by storing energy to use in peak periods to reduce electrical energy costs,” adds Adam. “The world-leading intelligent energy storage system minimises the impact of increasing energy costs, providing the opportunity to reduce or even eliminate electricity bills. With its superior monitoring technology, the battery learns energy usage patterns to optimise power provision at key times of the day.”
The home, which has a Nathers Star Rating of 5.1, also boasts a host of other eco-friendly inclusions. There is extensive insulation to external walls, ceilings and the roof. The showerheads have a 3 Star rating, the tapware and WC 4 Star, and the gas hot water system 6 Star.
Other measures include cross flow ventilation to reduce the use of air conditioning. This is achieved by balconies to both the east and west facades, and louvres and sliding windows on the north and south facades. For maximum water efficiency, there is a 3000-litre rainwater tank under the driveway and a grey water system.
As much care was invested in the style of the house. A stroll around the home reveals the feature staircase with its site-fabricated structural-steel mono stringer design, custom treads and glass balustrade with stainless capping rail. Other design features include rounded coffered ceilings and the master ensuite feature wall clad in Kerlite Calacutta Silk stone.
“The Avora 34 demonstrates an incredible intersection of style and revolutionary technology, signifying a shift in the future of construction through its net zero energy rating,” says Adam. “The growing need for sustainable living has inspired innovative new construction methods that are not only eco-friendly, they offer sizeable savings on power costs without any sacrifice of style.”
For more information check out Icon Homes
