Energy Ratings
Most people treat energy ratings as a box to tick at the end — then scramble when the numbers don’t work. We build it in from day one. Window placement, orientation, glazing, insulation, thermal mass — all of it is designed to hit the target from the start. The result is a home that’s not just compliant but genuinely more comfortable to live in, year-round.
Discuss Your Project
Orientation and solar analysis
What you get
Every energy ratings project includes comprehensive documentation and support.
- NatHERS / FirstRate energy assessment
- Star rating certification
- Thermal performance analysis
- Glazing and insulation specification
- Orientation and passive design recommendations
- BASIX compliance (NSW projects)
- Energy efficiency report for approval submission
Why it matters
Compliance from the start
Energy performance is designed in, not retrofitted. This avoids costly late changes.
Better living comfort
Energy-efficient homes are more comfortable year-round — cooler in summer, warmer in winter.
Lower running costs
A well-designed thermal envelope reduces heating and cooling costs for the life of the home.
Our approach
How we deliver energy ratings — step by step.
Design for performance
Energy analysis starts during concept design, not after. Orientation, window placement, and thermal mass are considered from the outset.
Model and test
We model the design in energy assessment software and test variations to optimise the star rating.
Specify the envelope
Insulation, glazing type, and construction details are specified to meet the target rating.
Certify and submit
The final energy assessment is certified and included in the approval documentation.
Examples of our work
A selection of projects where energy ratings played a central role in the design outcome.
Passive design strategies integrated from day one
Common questions
Answers to the things clients ask most about energy ratings.
What star rating do I need?
In the ACT, a minimum 6-star rating is required. Some developments require higher. We typically exceed the minimum.
Does energy rating affect my design?
It influences window sizes and placement, insulation levels, and sometimes layout. Starting early means these decisions enhance the design rather than compromise it.
Do you do the energy rating in-house?
Yes. We are accredited assessors using FirstRate and NatHERS tools.
Related projects
See how this service shaped the outcomes on real projects.
Works well with
Most projects combine several services. These pair naturally with energy ratings.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your project and we'll recommend the best path forward.