Building soon? Don’t miss these easy design wins

Published on 30 September 2025

Port Noarlunga South local, Stuart, offers a prime example of how smart, early design choices can lead to a more comfortable, affordable and liveable home.

His new build in a recently developed estate might look like any other in the neighbourhood, but step inside and you’ll find it stays a steady 19 degrees year-round – without needing the heater.

By speaking up early and asking his builder to include a few key features, Stuart has created a home that’s not only pleasant to live in, but also cheaper to run.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by floorplans, upgrades and package deals – and many people don’t realise they can ask for changes, even when building with a volume builder.

Often, small tweaks to the design cost little or nothing upfront but make a huge difference to long-term comfort and running costs.

In Stuart’s new estate, it’s clear that better design doesn’t have to come with a bigger price tag.

Simple choices – like a light-coloured roof, the right orientation, quality insulation and well-placed windows – have helped create a home that stays naturally comfortable across the seasons.

Stuart still has more improvements he’d like to make, but by starting off with the right design, he knows it will be easier and more affordable to make changes as his family’s finances allow.

With so many new developments happening across Onkaparinga, Stuart’s experience is a great reminder that you don’t need a custom build to get a better home – you just need the right questions and advice early in the process.

If you’re thinking about building, check out this no-cost and low-cost checklist – a practical tool to help you have informed conversations with your builder from day one.

Stuart’s story is part of the Homes for Tomorrow campaign, showcasing local people making smart choices for homes that are more liveable now – and into the future.

Homes for Tomorrow was launched by the high-growth councils of Onkaparinga, Alexandrina, Light and Mount Barker to help South Australians start their sustainable home journeys – including free and affordable options.

Watch Stuart’s story at the Homes for Tomorrow website, where you’ll also find a range of other video case studies, downloadable fact sheets, checklists, resources, links and inspirational stories to help make sustainable choices easier.