Smarter Design, Better Materials, Lower Running Costs
Every decision made on a residential project affects how the finished home performs and what it costs to run. Orientation, glazing, insulation, wall systems and material choice all play a part, and the decisions made earliest carry the most weight.
In this session we'll look at how smart design and material choices lower a home's energy use and running costs, and what NatHERS, BASIX and Whole of Home assessments mean for the way projects come together. Studio Terra works alongside architects, builders and custom home designers every day, turning compliance requirements into practical design outcomes. Sarah will share what she sees working, what commonly trips projects up, and where the biggest performance gains are found.
Together, Weathertex and Studio Terra will discuss:
• What energy efficiency really means for a home, beyond meeting the minimum standard
• Where the biggest performance gains come from, and what they cost
• How NatHERS, BASIX and Whole of Home assessments fit together
• Why bringing a sustainability consultant in early changes the outcome
• The role of building fabric, wall systems and cladding in performance
• The most common reasons a design misses its rating, and how to avoid them
Guest Speaker
Sarah Campbell is an ESD Consultant and the Director of Studio Terra, a building sustainability consultancy based in Newcastle, NSW. With over 15 years of experience across certification, planning, and sustainability, Sarah specialises in early-stage BASIX, NatHERS, and Section J assessments for residential and commercial projects. Her focus is getting compliance input into projects at concept stage, helping teams avoid redesign, protect feasibility, and reach approval faster. Sarah is an active member and sponsor of WIBAS and a strong advocate for women in construction leadership.
Presenter
Vanda Correia
National Marketing Manager
Subscribe
Sign up for exclusive Weathertex tips and trends sent straight to your inbox
