Deciding whether to extend or rebuild your home can be a tricky decision and can save, or cost you, thousands of dollars.

Passive design involves designing a new home or extension so that it requires minimal heating and cooling to create comfortable living spaces throughout the year. It can save you a huge amount of money as mechanical heating and cooling can contribute up to 40% of your annual home energy costs.

Unfortunately, your drawings alone are simply not enough for builders to quote your project. Sure, they’re great for telling builders how big the house is going to be, where the kitchen and bathroom are located, and what the walls and roof are made from; but the plans by themselves do not tell the builders about the fittings, finishes and materials that make the house your home.