02 What’s In
The rising cost of building
What does it cost to build a house in Australia these days? What factors are at play, and what’s the most affordable way? Earlier this year as part of InspoExpo, Sanctuary: modern green homes magazines editor Anna Cumming moderated a panel discussion with three expert practitioners to delve further into this subject.
Projects can be kept more affordable by prioritising spending on elements that will make a big difference to the performance of the home and opting for less expensive materials elsewhere. This kitchen, part of a modest extension and renovation by Gruen Eco Design in Blackburn, Victoria, includes a flat-pack kitchen from Ikea. While premium double-glazed timber windows were specified for ground floor, more affordable, standard double-glazed windows worked well for upstairs. Image: Laurel Honey
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