Building and renovation
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Any colour as long as it’s green
There’s nothing more satisfying than admiring a fresh paint job. And today’s Kiwis also want to know their hard work won’t hurt the environment. Here’s our green painting guide.
What makes a green home?
Green design isn’t just for designers. Andy Kenworthy explains the eight core elements behind eco-friendly buildings.
Paint it white to combat global warming
Did you know painting your roof a lighter shade helps fight global warming – and can be 30 per cent cheaper? Ellie van Baaren explains.
Country home build diary (part 2)
Getting building consent can be a rocky road. In part two of their home build diary, Dominique and Daryl tell how their eco home project hit some bumps.
City home build diary (part 2)
In part two of their regular home build diary, Bruce and Annabel Mitchinson explain which green materials they chose for their now-completed eco home.
City home build diary (part 1)
Bruce and Annabel Mitchinson are currently putting the finishing touches on a super-energy-efficient home they built in Auckland. In part one of their regular home build diary, they explain how their ambitious project started.
Country home build diary (part 1)
In part one of their Green Ideas home build diary, Dominique and Daryl McCrostie explain how they want to get back to the good life by building a self-sufficient, modern home they can pass down ...
Building within a budget
Should a cost overrun spell the end of their eco building dreams? Canterbury couple Mark and Helen find a novel solution in the Green Ideas home build diary.
Earth houses
Interested in earth houses? Check out the Earth Building Association’s site: http://www.earthbuilding.org.nz/index.htm
Passive design
Some great resources here on passive design in housing – ie. making the most of free, renewable energy when building a house, thereby reducing the need for extra energy for heating, etc. http://www.level.org.nz/passive-design/