What is sustainable design?

Passive homes

A relatively new buzz word, passive homes are designed to take advantage of the climate to help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, with a goal to reduce or eliminate the need for a heating or cooling unit. It’s achieved through thoughtful process into the orientation of your home, installing adjustable shading and insulation, as well as choosing the right building materials for the climate you live in. For those living in older homes, you can even eliminate much of the cool air in your home by sealing up any air leaks to help trap warmth in Winter. Heating and cooling units account for up to 40% of Australian energy bills, so looking for alternatives is a great way to not only be environmentally friendly, but also save money.

Energy

One of the best ways to reduce your energy bills, as well as your carbon footprint, is to install energy efficient heating and cooling and one of the best options available right now is solar heating or wind generators. The initial outlay can be expensive, although rebates and other incentives may offset much of this cost, and they pay themselves off relatively quickly due to their low running costs. Choosing smart appliances and energy-efficient lighting with high energy ratings also helps reduce your energy bill and carbon footprint – so consider more than just price when purchasing that new fridge, because lower energy ratings can end up costing you more in the long run.

Water

It’s no secret that Australia has a massive water problem. Droughts are rife most Summers and even occasional Winters, so it’s important that we work together to ensure the longevity of our drinkable water supply. You might think you can’t make much of an impact on your own, but there are several steps homes can take to help improve water sustainability through two major steps:

1.Reducing the quantity of water we consume
2.Improving water quality by managing stormwater and wastewater

Neither of these things involves drinking less water, but rather managing the other uses of water in the house. Turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, taking shorter showers and installing water-efficient showerheads, toilets and taps are all ways you can reduce your water use inside. Heading outside, choosing indigenous plants, mulching and using water efficient irrigation systems, as well as considering the installation of a rainwater tank can help reduce your footprint. You can also consider re-routing your wastewater (often called grey water) to the garden and even your toilet, as long as low sodium and low phosphorus detergents are used in the grey water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Architect vs Designer—what’s the difference?

In Australia, only licensed professionals can officially call themselves architects—signifying a certain standard of training, practice, and oversight. It’s crucial to confirm this qualification before you begin.

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Why does experience matter?

Architectural design isn’t just drawing a house—it’s about timing, functionality, and compliance, which only comes with years of experience. Playoust Churcher’s team boasts over 100 years of combined residential design practice.

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Should the architect be a professional member?

Yes—affiliations like the Australian Institute of Architects, Association of Consulting Architects, or HIA ensure accountability, recognition, and high standards. Skilled architects typically hold multiple memberships.

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Does specialisation in residential design matter?

Absolutely. Architects experienced in commercial or institutional work may face different regulatory and functional priorities. Make sure your architect has a strong residential portfolio.

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Why evaluate the architect's style?

Architectural design is personal. If their previous works align with your taste, that’s a promising match. Use their online portfolio to assess whether their style speaks to you.

How vital is sustainability in choosing an architect?

You don’t have to sacrifice style for eco-consciousness. The right architect will integrate sustainable design—like energy efficiency and passive systems—seamlessly, enhancing both comfort and resale value.

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Should you meet the architect before hiring?

Yes—personal fit is everything. A great architect listens, asks thoughtful questions, and understands your lifestyle needs. If communication flows well, you’re on the right track.

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Why be upfront about your budget?

Money impacts scope and design. Architects who are transparent and confident in discussing costs early help avoid surprise upheavals in both budget and outcome.

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Key Takeaways

Sustainability Beyond the Environment

Sustainable design, as defined by Playoust Churcher, transcends just eco-friendly building—it also integrates social well-being and economic longevity into architectural projects.

Holistic Framework for Home Design

True sustainability in a home means embracing a three-dimensional approach—ensuring it’s socially meaningful, environmentally responsible, and economically viable over time.

Three Pillars, One Vision

Effective sustainable design aligns its visual form with daily living needs and financial reality, embedding all three pillars—social, environmental, economic—into the core design strategy.

A Strategic, Integrated Process

Rather than a box to tick, sustainability is integral to every design decision—crafted not as an afterthought, but woven into materials, systems, and client values from the start. While not explicitly stated here, Playoust Churcher’s broader methodology underscores this integrated approach.

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.