As temperatures increase in a heating climate, having a home that protects you from heat stress is becoming more important. The Cape has long anticipated this problem and designed homes that stay naturally cool in summer and warm in winter. The Cape is a community where we have thought a lot about how to maintain comfort, health and liveability as things inevitably heat up.
We are located in South Gippsland on Victoria’s Bass Coast, which is a part of Australia that is naturally cooler year round than many other places. We have also put in place a range of measures in our homes and broader landscapes to ensure we are at the forefront of climate adaptation for the benefits of our residents. Here are some of the ways we have achieved this outcome for you.
Smart Design for Seasonal Comfort: Our homes are meticulously designed to provide natural cooling in summer and warmth in winter, ensuring year-round comfort without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems. With Cape homes averaging an impressive 8-star energy rating, you can rest assured that your home will be designed and built to stay cool and liveable. Several years ago The Cape took the initiative to amend our design guidelines to favour lighter coloured rooftops in anticipation of hotter temperatures, to ensure that rooftops reflect rather than absorb heat. This initiative sparked debate at the time but is now becoming accepted practice, with research showing that darker coloured rooftops in certain areas can significantly increase power bills.
Carbon-Neutral Living: Embrace sustainable coastal living with homes powered by solar energy. Through smart passive solar design, eliminating gas usage and harnessing the power of the sun, Cape homes’ all electric fit-outs offer a cool, carbon-neutral haven while contributing to a greener future.
Water Efficiency and Rainwater Harvesting: Stay refreshed with homes equipped with a minimum of 10,000 litres of rainwater storage, perfect for irrigating landscapes and plumbed to homes for toilet flushing. Our commitment to water sustainability ensures that homes are harvesting all available rainwater even during hotter months. We use best practice water sensitive urban design throughout the community to ensure stormwater and rainwater are treated as a resource and reused across the site, and are then treated in our wetlands where they support a wide range of wildlife.
Nature-Friendly Landscape: With half of our site dedicated to community spaces, parks, and habitat restoration, you’ll find a haven for native animals and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. This beautiful setting doubles to reduce the urban heat island effect!
Social Connection: Foster meaningful connections with your neighbors and build lasting friendships in our vibrant community spaces. The Cape’s community come together in the community farm, the sports precinct, down at the local beach, along the kilometres of walking tracks or just sitting in one of the pocket parks shooting the breeze.
As we navigate the challenges posed by rising temperatures and heat stress, The Cape has thought deeply about these challenges and offers a sanctuary where you can find relief and comfort amidst the heat. Experience sustainable coastal living at its finest and join us in creating a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come.
To learn more about our available homes and explore the benefits of living at The Cape, visit our sales display or contact Marie at sales@liveatthecape.com.au or call 03 7022 9790
We hope to see you in our display house at The Cape soon.
