Building a home is probably one of the most expensive investments you'll ever make in your life. Thus, some people cut costs wherever they can when building a home. But when it comes to energy efficiency, it is important to incorporate the right designs and features to ensure that you'll save more money on your energy bills. Here are some tips to help build a home that's beautiful, comfortable and of course, energy-efficient.  

In order to reduce use of artificial heating, you need to think of ways to take advantage the sun's heat. You need to place your windows strategically to harness that natural heat. Your biggest window should be in the south-facing side of your home to benefit from the passive winter heat. On the opposite side, place smaller windows to reduce heat loss from the cooler and more shaded part of your home.   

Generally, large and spacious homes are a status symbol. However, the level of energy-consumption of those wonderful high ceilings, extravagant bed rooms with open plan living area and guest lounge should be taken into consideration. One of the main elements of an energy-efficient home is the efficient use of space. Smaller homes are usually more energy efficient.

Another way to save big on energy bills is by proper lighting. Use energy efficient windows and place them strategically to take advantage of that natural light source – the sun. Apply an open plan design in areas that are going to be frequently used to take full advantage of natural light in every corner of the building. And when its time to turn on the lights, make sure that you use LED or fluorescent light bulbs which are many times more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs. 

Click on the following links to visit the Serenity Homes website and find out more about building energy-efficient Adelaide two storey house designs.  

http://www.serenityhomes.com.au/ 

http://www.serenityhomes.com.au/two-storey-house-designs.html