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#39 Building Better: Energy Efficiency and Architecture with Ben Walsham - Part 2
The Build Insite Podcast
34 minutes 9 seconds
2 months ago
#39 Building Better: Energy Efficiency and Architecture with Ben Walsham - Part 2
The theory's one thing. Making it work on site? That's where it gets interesting.
In part two with Ben Walsham from Arkata, we get into the nitty-gritty of energy-efficient building—the stuff that separates good intentions from homes that actually perform. Ben walks us through a high-performance passive solar project in cold climate conditions, breaking down the real challenges: slab insulation that works, achieving proper airtightness, and delivering thermal comfort that homeowners can feel.
What you'll get from this episode:- How energy modelling software actually helps you make smarter decisions (and where to spend your money)- The honest trade-offs different design choices involve- Why your builder-architect-engineer triangle can make or break a project- Where the retrofit market is heading and what it means for your business- Window performance insights that impact your energy ratings- Ben also shares his move from Adelaide to Melbourne and what opportunities he's seeing in the Victorian market—plus some candid thoughts on collaboration and where the industry's headed.
Perfect for builders, architects, and anyone who wants homes that perform as well as they look.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Alterations & Additions00:32 – Welcome to Build Insite Podcast00:49 – High-Performance Passive Solar Design01:20 – Exploring Slab Insulation Options02:25 – Software for Star Ratings04:25 – Cost & Performance Analysis06:38 – Future Performance & Resilient Homes13:45 – Collaboration & Design Decisions15:59 – Big Move: Adelaide to Melbourne17:30 – A New Beginning in Brunswick18:08 – Exploring Retrofit Opportunities20:14 – The Importance of Window Performance22:10 – Energy Efficiency Ratings Explained26:03 – Sponsorship Announcement28:14 – Future Plans & Personal Connections29:35 – Rapid Fire Questions32:17 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information33:24 – Acknowledgements & Disclaimer
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