I NDULGE / HOME S
KEEN TO GIVE YOUR SPACE A SPRUCE UP? Here are our experts’ tips for renovating sustainably.
THE EXPERTS
MATT WOODS Industrial and interior designer, Killing Matt Woods
Above left: controlling lights and monitoring energy via smart controls can save on bills. Above right: Matt Woods creates a concrete look in an apartment by using lighter, environmentally friendly glass-reinforced cement and a concrete-effect paint finish.
BROOKE DUNLOP Architect and director, Architects Australia
1. CONVERT TO A SMART HOME If you have the means, make use of smart thermostats, lighting controls and energy monitoring devices to optimise your energy usage, says Brooke. “By upgrading energy and water-efficient appliances and fixtures, and implementing smart energy management systems, you can experience notable savings on your utility bills, which is especially valuable during times when energy costs are rising.”
2. SMALL IDEAS MEAN BIG SAVINGS “Some small-scale energy-saving renovation ideas to consider include upgrading to energy-efficient lighting such as LED bulbs, improving insulation in walls and roofs and installing double-glazed windows for better thermal insulation,” says Brooke. “Depending on your budget and roof orientation, solar panels are becoming a better investment every year, as panel costs are decreasing compared with the quality and efficiency of the panels available – and energy costs are increasing.”
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DARE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2023
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