Regenerative Design & Circularity – Andrew Noonan, Andrew Noonan Architect

Reducing carbon emissions, both embodied and operational, is now a design priority. But carbon cannot be considered in isolation.

Today we continue with the latest science and investigate the importance of holistic decision making and regenerative design. We'll explore the renovation and extension of a 150-year-old timber cottage on a small inner city suburban site in Turrbal Country, subtropical Brisbane.

Architect Andrew Noonan, director of Andrew Noonan Architect, shares the inside story on renovating his own home. Andrew conducted extensive research on his design, material and product choices to ensure they achieved optimal regenerative outcomes and he shares his very interesting findings.

Today we'll learn about:

• the importance of regenerative design and circular economy thinking,
• specifying timber from environmental sources,
• the long term problems with using dark colours in hot climates,
• why plasterboard wall linings are actually a very environmental solution, and

loads of other insights and practical information from Andrew's extensive research and years of experience.

Australian Architects can claim formal CPD hours by listening to these podcasts and completing an online quiz.

MORE INFORMATION

Find everything you need on the Renovation Collaborative website.

www.renovationcollaborative.com.au

• PODCAST Key points summary, timestamps and resource links
• FREE RESOURCES Transcript edited into clear Q&A.
• CPD Australian architects can find more information on CPD, and
• COURSES Eleven easy to read courses demystifying the entire home design and construction process.

KEY POINTS SUMMARY

1. Reducing carbon emissions through design is critical, but we must think holistically and find regenerative design solutions that do not focus on carbon at the expense of everything else. Regenerative design aims to integrate the building into a broader system, emphasising ways to give back and create a positive impact rather than merely reducing negative impacts.

As an example, Andrew could have achieved 10 star NatHERS but chose not to because achieving it would have required upgrading from single to double glazing. This change would have significantly increased his embodied carbon due to the added glass. NatHERS modelling proved that his house design would be comfortable in a subtropical climate without mechanical heating and cooling, and so double glazed windows were not essential.

2. Relying on rooftop solar power to offset large household energy consumption is not a balanced regenerative approach. It's crucial to prioritise reduction over production. Always explore ways to reduce energy demand first.

3. Getting the fundamentals of climate responsive design right is a vital starting point for all designs and will significantly enhance energy efficiency.

4. Choosing light coloured exterior paint in hot climates can minimise heat gain and prolong the life of...