Designing Green: Better products for better living
When you’re designing or renovating your home, every product and material choice is a chance to create something not only beautiful and functional, but also healthy, efficient, and future focused.
At Ruth Newman Architect we help clients make smart, informed decisions about materials that are good for the environment as well as great for your home and wellbeing. From paints and timbers to wall claddings and water systems, here’s how sustainable choices deliver long-term value.
1. Weathertex: smart, sustainable cladding
One of our go-to recommendations for external cladding is Weathertex, a locally manufactured product made from 97% hardwood timber and 3% natural wax. It’s 100% natural, contains no added silica, glues, or formaldehydes, and is the first manufactured product globally to receive Platinum GreenTag Certification. Aside from being environmentally conscious, Weathertex is durable, easy to install, and visually striking – perfect for modern Australian homes.
2. Low VOC Paints: Cleaner air, healthier homes
Standard paints can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air long after they dry, potentially affecting indoor air quality and causing respiratory issues. We always recommend low-VOC or VOC-free paints, which drastically reduce these emissions. They’re better for your family’s health, particularly children and anyone with allergies or asthma, and they don’t compromise on colour, finish, or durability.
3. Minimising MDF: Less off-gassing, better breathing
Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) is common in joinery, but it often contains formaldehyde-based resins that release gases into your home. Where possible, we limit the use of MDF in favour of solid timbers or formaldehyde-free board products. The goal? Safer indoor air quality, and a reduction in the ‘new build smell’ that can actually be harmful to your health.
4. Sustainable timber: Beauty that respects the forest
We love working with sustainably sourced timber. Not only is it a renewable resource when harvested responsibly, but it also brings warmth, texture and timelessness to interiors. Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC-certified timber products to ensure your floors, cabinetry and feature walls are both environmentally and ethically sound.
5. Water saving appliances
Installing water-saving fixtures, such as dual-flush toilets, WELS-rated tapware, and efficient dishwashers and washing machines, significantly reduces your water usage. This is a smart move not just environmentally, but financially too. Modern water-saving appliances don’t compromise performance, and over time they can dramatically cut utility bills while conserving a precious natural resource.
Designing with Impact
We believe good design shouldn’t come at the cost of your health or the planet. By specifying products that are safe, sustainable and suited to your lifestyle, we ensure your home works smarter for you, and lasts longer for future generations.
Whether you’re planning a new build or refreshing your existing space, we’re here to guide you through the choices that matter. Let’s create a home that looks good, feels good, and does good.
by Ruth Newman