THE ACT GAS TRANSITION

While gas appliances are a staple of many homes and gas cooktops are often favoured by the best homecooks, this could soon become a thing of the past in Canberra.

The ACT Government are aiming for zero net emissions by 2045 and one of the ways they will achieve this is by transitioning Canberra from natural gas to electricity. This process includes retrofitting existing homes and buildings and preventing new gas connections.

WHAT DO I NEED TO CONSIDER AS A HOMEOWNER?

• Consider alternatives to gas appliances in your home, such as electric or induction cooktops.

• Install solar panels to create a reliable energy source for your home that doesn’t rely on natural gas.

• Plan how you will heat/cool your home throughout the year, and consider opting for alternatives to systems reliant on gas.

• Research the production process of the materials you want to use in your home; try to select materials the aren’t produced using fossil fuels.

WHAT CHANGES SHOULD I MAKE TO MY EXISTING HOME?

The ACT Government has prepared an online transition tool for homeowners and businesses to assist with implementing sustainable solutions. Access the transitional tool here: https://energy.act.gov.au/your-energy-journey/

By planning for the phasing out of fossil fuel gas now, this can be an opportunity create a more energy-efficient home that runs at a lower cost into the future.

Utilising Materials In Different Ways

Construction, design and architecture are consistently pushing the bounds of creativity in the residential sector. With creativity in abundance and materials in short supply, it’s important to consider how you can utilise different materials in new ways. Check out the inspirational project images below from MBA Members.

Cabinets

Cedar panel kitchen cabinet doors by Brother Projects and The Dept. of Design.

Staircases

A vibrant green perforated steel staircase by Sama & Co.

GLASS

Window Framing

Chapman Built used timber framing around the windows of this Griffith home, to create an impressive feature.

Floor panels

Monarch Building Solutions used glass floor panels to provide a seamless floating effect in this hallway.

TIMBER

Staircase screen and balustrade

This timber staircase screen and balustrade was specially designed and crafted by Braithwaite Building and de Rome Architects.

Cladding

Impressive feature timber cladding on this extension completed by Walmsley Building Solutions.

Bathtub

This incredible custom timber bathtub with an aluminum interior by MegaFlora Group and Kraftworks, is show-stopping feature in this bathroom.

Staircases

This amazing glass staircase was created by MegaFlora Group.

Ceilings

Sutton & Horsley and Paul Tilse Architects delivered an incredible timber ceiling in this home in Griffith.

Vanities

A custom timber vanity by 360 Building Solutions and Neighbourhood Architecture.

METAL

Cladding and Window Awnings

360 Building Solutions and Quest Architecture used metal cladding and solid steel window awnings to create a stunning exterior on this home.

Balustrades

This glazed glass balustrade was delivered by Manteena Residential, Architects Ring & Associates and The Dept. of Design.