SUHO Services Overview | Residential Energy Efficiency & Design Optimisation
At SUHO, we believe that better performance startswith better design. As a national leader in building science and sustainability, we work with architects, developers, and builders to transform residential projects into high-performing, energy-efficient homes without compromising on comfort, cost, or style.
Through our role on the TV show Renovate or Rebuild (9Life), we demonstrated how design optimisation, when integrated early, can elevate homes across Australia to achieve outstanding energy ratings.
Our Core Services for Residential Projects
NatHERS Energy Ratings
We are accredited NatHERS assessors, providing compliance assessments and tailored feedback to ensure your home meets or exceeds minimum energy performance standards across all climate zones in Australia.
Design Optimisation & Passive Design Consulting
We provide expert guidance on:
- Room zoning and building orientation (e.g., Living zones to North, Wet areas to South)
- Solar access and shading strategies
- Window placement, glazing selection, and natural ventilation
- Smart interventions that increase star ratings with minimal cost impact
Thermal Performance Analysis
We advise on:
- Thermal mass for heating/cooling stability
- Effective insulation and airtightness strategies
- Thermal bridging, material selection and detailing
Our in-house modelling team assesses how these decisions affect heating/cooling loads and long-term energy use.
Airtightness Testing + Thermal Imaging
We offer two-stage blower door testing (at lockup + completion) to identify leaks and thermal gaps, ensuring homes perform as designed. Thermal imaging makes invisible issues like missing insulation or air leaks visible, before they become costly.
Low-Cost, High-Impact Design Interventions
Some of our most effective suggestions include:
- Installing ceiling fans for passive cooling
- Adding external window shading
- Adjusting internal openings to better regulate air flow and zone control
These small tweaks have helped homes achieve significant star rating increases, without a full redesign.
Success Stories from Renovate or Rebuild
- Currimundi, QLD (TONIC Architecture): Boosted rebuild home from 4.8 stars to 7.9 stars through strategic zoning and site optimisation.
- Phillip Island, VIC (Breathe Architecture): Used thermal mass and daylighting to uplift a complex floor plan from 5.7 stars to 7.6 stars.
- Malabar, NSW (ARKHAUS): Improved shading and solar access for a 7.2 star outcome in Climate Zone 5 from base rating of 4.7 stars.
- Newcastle, NSW (Archispectrum): Helped redesign a poorly oriented west-facing home from an initial 4.2 stars to achieve 7.3 stars.
- Finale 10 Star Home: Our own SUHO-designed and built home achieved a NatHERS 10 star rating, showcasing the pinnacle of sustainable design. The home operates year-round with no mechanical heating or cooling, verified through airtightness testing and performance modelling.
Why Work With SUHO?
- Science-backed advice tailored to your project, site, and budget
- Australia wide coverage across all climate zones
- Proven track record in helping projects reach 7, 8, 9 and 10 star energy ratings
- Passionate team of sustainability consultants
Let’s Optimise Your Next Project
Whether you're designing a new home, renovating an existing one, or developing a boutique residential community, we’re ready to help make your project smarter, more sustainable, and more cost-effective.
📩 Get in touch: residential@suho.com.au
🌐 Visit us: www.suho.com.au
📍 Available Australia-wide