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5. RESIDENTIAL SYSTEMS & DESIGN 

HVAC System 

As we experience our climate dramatically changing amidst an already swaying temperate climate, seasonal weather here at the Gateway to the Snowy mountains at Pine Valley can be unpredictable and volatile, with heavy winds, rain and snow.  The installation of a HVAC system can stabilize the effects of irregulate weather systems and long temperature extremes, they can also provide an excellent exchange of air quality.  These systems are active ESD systems and can be very expensive to install. Many countries and high Alpine areas have closed or sealed envelopes that save you from rapid heating and cooling requirements.  Again, at MKE, decisions surrounding the incorporation of  

 

HVAC systems are variable and could be lifestyle induced. HVAC systems in our temperate climate are sometime replaced with passive heating and cooling design which includes strategic placement of cross ventilation and thermal mass. Generally, the temperature zone for the area including Pine valley is suitable to both applications. It may be a discussion surrounding how you feel most comfortable.  For mid to high range options of ESD the residence design can be analyzed with software giving performance ratios, this can support with decision making.  What I would suggest here is make your envelope be made as tight as possible with Double glazing during winter months and allow the residence to breathe during the temperate to warmer months with appropriately positioned cross ventilation.  I feel that in the alpine areas of Australian we can still enjoy the distilled ambiance of clean flowing fresh Australian.   

Guidelines: All electric heating system powered by Solar PV and or a Solar Hydronic heating system- reverse cycle Air conditioner (on ground) 

MKE Preferred Option- Double glazing, high insulated walls and roof with appropriately placed windows for cross ventilation, Heating the residences is recommended -upstairs via convection panel heat banks, ceramic electric radiators or halogen systems  with lower floor in slab heating, hydronic systems, assisted with an electric fire place for ambience.  

 

Emissions 

Note: Net zero carbon refers to the state where emissions of carbon dioxide due to human activities and removal of these gases are in balance over a given period, often this is referred to as net zero. 

 

Note: MKE guidelines suggest that residence at MKE should follow a net zero balanced lifestyle choice through the option and inclusion of an all-electric format hosted by a custom set PV system suited to your lifestyle needs.  We feel that the inclusion of an appropriately sized solar system will encourage the use of energy efficient electric devises appliances and transport systems, At MKE we feel that by siting net zero we have the utmost ability to achieve substantial saving in emission and cost.  All residences could be flexible with their installation levels, investment needs and economic choices. Setting up a system that can be added onto is a smart way to invest into your microgrid. All homes have the opportunity to be connected to the national grid, how you strategize your opportunities with MKE is a discussion with our Solar specialists. There suggested system ratios can support an entry level base system of 10Kw which supports the ability to grow towards net zero, the mid to high level of 25kW + will support the opportunity for net zero. 

Guidelines: It is recommended that all optioned service systems in residences be aligned with zero Carbon affiliated brands with a 5-star energy rating or similar with a min of 10kW solar PV system 

MKE Preferred options: Our residential designs with allocated service systems analyzed through an accredited energy specialist who focuses on zero card & life cycle analysis. A custom PV solar system designed to support your lifestyle choices with Storage will support the net zero target.  

Waste 

Guideline: Waste on site needs to be appropriately separated, recycled, and stored then taken to the Council recycling center weekly as there is no waste collection services to Pine Valley at this time. 

Stormwater retention, recycling and re-use is encouraged.  

Colors  

Guideline: Traditional Alpine colors are encouraged at MKE, this includes shades of Black grey, neutral, and earthy natural warm tones with a distilled recycled aspect from materials and colors.   Alpine Architecture could include dark greys and lighter tones particularly with cladding and timber stains that reflect a highland theme.  The deep green of the pines goes well with olive tones, dark rusts and fawn timbers, selected highlight colors are to be introduced to bring diversity and interest to each dwelling giving it its own unique character.  

 

Guideline:  and colors are to be in line with the provided palette and color schedule- with one background, accent, and trim color, this should be selected from the preferred palette description.  

Chosen face brick work or stone feature work must be complementary to the selected color palette and generally flat faced and not deeply textured. The façade material must have a variation of at least 2 separate materials finishes, a minimum 20% of the façade must be a feature material. 

 

Passive Design 

Passive design is the ability of house design to perform/ gain from non- active applications and non-electrified technology, the residences at MKE: please refer to BASIX New Sustainable House Design 2023   

Guideline: 

• Roof Insulation  

• Double Glazing 

• Northeastern Aspect & Orientation 

• Insulated slab. 

 

MKE Notes: Consider passive design principles, the local environment and site context early in the 

subdivision process enables efficient use of resources, minimizes runoff and erosion and 

improves outcomes for residents. 

 

Thermal Mass 

Guideline 

• Concrete slab on ground to habitable dwelling for the purpose of thermal massing 

• Placement of high Mass Materials for Solar Gain to lower External Walls or similar 

MKE Notes: The combination of concrete slab floors, recycled double-brick walls, or highly insulated cladding and double-glazed windows, allows this home to have a high level of thermal comfort in summer and winter. 

 

Innovation 

Guideline 

• Electric vehicle charging points to Garage or similar.   

• Double Glazing to all windows except wet areas (Low E) is optional. 

• Compact LED Lighting & Assisted Solar Lighting Externally 

• MKE Preferred Option-Micro-grid (energy trading within subdivision- peer to peer trading) MKE Preferred option from 25Kw PV system. 

• MKE Preferred option- High quality digital infrastructure to the home to support the on-site Maintenance Management Plan  

• (Remote Rainwater Harvesting filtering and recycling / Remote Bio Septic Maintenance Management 

• MKE Preferred Option-Working from home- virtual service delivery- MKE Option 

 

Cross ventilation and Air circulation 

Guideline 

• Windows are to be placed in a configuration that allows for efficient air flow from one side of the dwelling to the other via external windows. 

• Windows Low E Windows are to be double glazed at the minimum, clear glazed to the street frontage, frosted is allowed for the bathroom and ensuite, sliding windows to the front are not permitted.  

• Where practicable, larger windows are to be oriented to the north or east for passive solar heating. 

• Skylights are to be double glazed and are encouraged. 

• Verandah terraces and porches encouraged. 

• A porch can be located in the articulated zone, upper-level balconies are encouraged and preferably covered. Outdoor areas are encouraged to have shaded pergola areas that have appropriate vine planting to allow for seasonal light and protection. 

• Eaves, if roofs are to have an absence of a projected eave, walls are to be insulated appropriately to secure a tight envelope and heat loss is kept to a min. 

 

Acoustic Requirements 

To maintain appropriate acoustic amenity, the following acoustic requirements apply as designated in the development near roads – interim Guidelines. 

 

Active Design: (Mechanical ESD) All Electric Residences 

All electric residences: A smart choice 

Note: Building a sustainable All – electric residence means building a more efficient future, your new residence at MKE is a big investment into your future and with a few smart decisions made before building begins, it could support a future efficient investment into you and your community and your planet.  

 

In 2020, across Australia 27.7% of total electricity generation was from renewable sources and with Australia’s net zero 2050 Target, 3     years on, that percentage of renewable sourced electricity has grown and will continue to grow, showing our progress in renewable energy so far.  

What an all-electric home looks like: 

For example: Reverse Cycle Air conditioner/ Solar Panels/ Heat Pump Water heater/ Induction cooktop/ Battery Storage system/ EV charging facility.  

 

Rebates: see Web site: Government Websites & State Government NSW  

 

Solar Systems: see reference Report & Documentation: NES NES Network Electrical Solutions Base Line & Mid – High Auto 

 

Subdivisions & Co2 -a future efficient way forward today 

Note: It is anticipated that Australia’s car emissions contribution to CO2 will increase. While disruptive technologies such as transport on demand mini-buses and driverless and electric vehicles may alter this trajectory, this also illustrates the need for developments today to be flexible to be able to adjust to rapid changes in how we live and travel in the future. 

 

MKE Approach 

Where possible at MKE Passive design is the most economical and environmentally efficient option, taking residences to the net zero via active design requires a consistent alignment of renewable resource, efficient management, and a stable provision of energy.  

Active design refers to mechanical ways we can save energy and carbon emission. At MKE a base level 10kw renewable energy source could support you with your daytime energy requirements, then interlinking your base system with the national grid will support you 24hrs.  

 

Guideline: Where possible Passive solar design is encouraged with an active renewable energy source customized to system needs.  

At MKE, the entry level renewable system we encourage a 10Kw PV System (no battery storage) with the facility to add on at a later stage with Battery storage.  This system will provide a base line investment into a stable and reliable energy supply set up for future requirements. 

MKE preferred option: Custom 25Kw + PV Solor system with Battery storage, trickle charging network for Vehicles and other electrical appliances and lifestyle accessories. Fans, high quality LED light, Hydronic heating mechanical ventilation and operable double glazed windows and skylights for active ventilation, all electric 5 star water heating system, hydronic heating electric, interactive mechanical shading and blackout. Mechanical watering system, mechanical water filtering systems, automated maintenance management of Effluent & water storage systems. Automated heating and cooling. High functioning Electrical appliances and automated water fixings.  

 

Interiors 

At MKE the interior of the house is just as important as the exterior when talking ESD, energy efficiency and sustainable living practices.  

Ultimately the efficient management of energy happens when we are living in the residences, but efficiency can be made easier with the right selection or specification of fit out and fixtures that allow a consistency in temperature and renewable resource usage. From a Base line perspective, its how much energy we use to keep our living & lifestyle standards to a comfort point we need to sustain our lives.  

 

The main way we can keep consistency in our interiors is to use a HVAC system, when this system does not align with our lifestyle there are options that in total can sustain a point of efficiency we are looking for at &+ stars.  For example, making sure we have a tight interior envelope (no draughts or air leakage during times of extreme climate, can be very effective, this can be achieved through the sealing around (Double glazing) windows and doors. provisioning adequate insulation, using reflective external materials, running recycled air conditioners and interior ceiling fans with PV supported technology.  

 

Guideline: 

• Windows and doors are to be sealed thoroughly to the interior and exterior of residences and inspected by an accredited agent. 

• Ceiling Fans to Interior living spaces and habitable rooms where applicable for temperature consistency/ air exchange and distribution.  

• Floor finishes to be of an insulative quality. 

• Materials to the interior of residences to be of a quality that does not allow off-gassing and to sustain an acceptable standard of environmental air quality to all indoor air spaces. 

 

Insulation 

Guidelines: 

• R2.5 insulation was used in external walls (excluding garage) and internal garage wall. This is an upgrade on the standard R1.5 external wall insulation with a builders wrap. 

• R4.0 ceiling insulation – an upgrade on R3.5 standard ceiling insulation. 

• Standard roof material can either be Color -bond or similar.  

• Roof sarking with reflective side down is required to meet the higher standards. 

• All habitable room windows will require Low E or double-glazed windows with aluminum frames. This excludes wet area windows. 

Critical for solar gain management and ventilation and can avoid significant use, improve comfort, and reduce operating costs for occupants and reduce overshadowing. 

• Supported by orientation and siting. 

 

Exterior  

External environmental concerns include the sustainable use of natural resources and land,  much of what we can consider in this instance is how we can support and maintain natural resources with assisted systems, namely efficient watering and recycling system for gardens, planning of landscaped for shade and drought tolerant plants, have mulching provisions, composting ground covers, rainwater harvesting, terracing slopes, wall garden and rain garden, shading structures, using natural pest controls, setting up various gardens for food sourcing even chickens and permeable pavers, green spaces, eco friendly aesthetics, waste to energy recycling. 

 

Landscaping  

There is an opportunity to increase greening and tree cover through site specific street design and landscaping. 

Trees which are drought resilient and have a large, shaded canopy are encouraged along with low maintenance native garden with water feature to encourage eco systems. 

Guidelines: 

• Deciduous Trees only- (Drought tolerant -for shading purposes and Asset Protection/deterrence (fire) throughout Site.   

• Low Maintenance Native Garden:  ground covers & grasses/shrubs to front Garden. 

• Water features encourage local ecology. 

MKE Preferred Option: It is encouraged that future owners present a landscaping plan to (DRP) due to the nature and use of intensive infrastructure services that are required on site and keeping BAL fire attack level low, gardens are to be Turf with green non- volatile trees. 

As the site is a former Village lifestyle farm with orchard, no native trees are or were on the site, to keep the site protected from volatile ignition, it is encouraged to plant a deciduous user-friendly landscape.  

Guideline- 

 

 

6. LAND CAPABILITY 

Geotechnical Findings See reference documents/reports. 

• Geo technical report- Effluent disposal and Storage 

• Rainwater Harvesting  

• Solar Gain 

 

Guidelines:  

• Water capacity requirement for individual Lots: inland Code 90,000L Water Storage as per inland Code NSW Planning & Environment 

• Effluent System for individual lots- AWTS Bio septic system with trench beds for a 5Br Capacity as per report 

• Min Solar PV system- 10 Kw back to Grid 

• MKE Preferred Option Rainwater Harvesting Report: SEEC 120,000 with automated remote sensing & maintenance program. 

• High end AWTS Bio-septic system with advanced systems management and automated remote sensing & contracted maintenance program. 

• Custom designed 25kW + 33Kw Solar PV system with Battery storage with build-ability  

 

7. SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE 

Power  

Note: Mains Power will be supplied to Pillars throughout the development site. The Electrical Plan is available for viewing through the Agent and or the Developer. The Pillar is located at the discretion of the Developer.  

Guideline:  

• An energy efficient system with energy saving and alternative energy sources- (A Micro grid system) is to be installed at least to a base level- entry level that will produce and reduce demand for energy from the national grid through multiple energy options. 

• To support the savings of energy the following ESD passive and active design & technology is recommended. 

 

1. Compact fluorescent / LED street & Garden lighting 

2. Smart technology to support demand management/behavioral change. 

3. Solar orientation & insulation 

4. Shading 

5. Generate and store renewable energy on site or at precinct scale. 

6. Utilize new and emerging technologies. 

7. Refer to On-site Services Management Maintenance Plan 

 

Water 

Note: Please refer to all Documents and legislation as listed below as the allotment has no connection to a mains water supply.  

All water available onsite will be subject to a supply provided by a Rainwater Harvesting system and external water cartage which can be optioned remotely as guided by the MKE On-Site Maintenance Management Plan and list pf preferred contractors.  

(Disclaimer) MKE does not take responsibility for any impact that an un-serviced allotment of land may present to the purchaser or the resident or investor throughout the building program or as a finished residence.  

 

• BASIX: Interim Rainwater Harvesting Guidelines (Gov NSW) 

• All reference Documents and Assessment as provided or by an accredited professional. 

• Due diligence  

• Water Carrier: On- Site Services Management Maintenance Plan 

 

Capturing and recycling rainwater is the MKE way to reduce your reliance on a mains water supply. 

All residences at MKE should be fitted with suitable rainwater Harvesting systems, filtration, and appropriate storage facilities to 120,000ltr.  

The (NSW Inland Code) requirement for our zone within the Snowy Mountains region is 90,000Ltr.  Rainwater is to be captured and harvested via the independent rainwater harvesting systems on each site for irrigation, watering gardens, toilets, vehicle washing and laundry services. Within the allocation of 120,000 an appropriately placed Storage Tank or tank (s) with appropriate filters and linings should be supplied and available for a continuous potable supply for potable purposes. Fire tanks are supplied separately and in addition to the 120,000Ltr allocation, via 2 x 5,000ltr Tanks. It is understood that the purchaser or future resident will supply a further 30,000 as per the Rainwater Harvesting: Initial water usage assessment.  

Please refer to reference Documents: Rainwater Harvesting report by SEEC Initial Water usage Assessment.  

 

Guideline: It is suggested that residences at MKE have an allocated water Storage capacity of 120,000 ltr, this storage allowance will support a 5-bedroom home with a AWTS effluent disposal system.  90,000 ltr storage facility or facilities will be supplied by the developer at the developer’s discretion in addition to 2 x 5,000 ltr fire tanks (above ground) Material location and catchment opportunities are to the discretion of the developer.  

MKE Preferred option: 120,000 ltr of Water Storage options inclusive of 90,000 ltr from the developer and 30,000 of additional storage by purchaser. 2 x 5,000 ltr water tanks to be supplied by developer. The configuration of above ground and or below ground tanks are to the discretion of the developer along with the material application, system and brand. 

 

Note: Wholistic WSUD on site-aims to improve the ability of urban environments to capture, treat and re-use stormwater before it has the chance to pollute and degrade our creeks and rivers. There are many ways we can do this on our village sites. 

• Increase permeability. 

• Reduce impervious material. 

• Clean and use stormwater. 

• Retain water to cool the landscape. 

• The differing cost of water and water recycling practices are other key examples that affect what ESD 

initiatives may be of greatest value. 

 

WSUD wholistic measures reduces use of potable water, reduces impact on infrastructure with the aid of 

High efficiency water design standards, systems, and technology. 

Why 

Basix Water Target is 30% reliance on potable water 2050- Temperate Zone 23 (NSW Sustainable Housing Code) Oct 2023  

The BASIX Water target requires up to a 40% reduction in mains-supplied potable water consumption, compared to the average 'pre-BASIX' home benchmark. The target saving varies for different climatic zones in NSW. Variation in the targets applied to each zone reflect the practicality of achieving water savings in areas with lower rainfall and the current water use patterns of existing homes in those areas compared to the NSW water benchmark. 

Alternative water sources recognized in BASIX include rainwater, stormwater, grey water, recycled effluent. 

Acceptable uses can include: 

• garden and lawn 

• toilets– only if all toilets are connected. 

• laundry 

• hot water– only if all hot water uses the alternative water source. 

• household uses– only if all water uses the alternative water source. 

• pool and spa top-up 

• cooling tower make-up water 

Water efficiency- Integrated water management and water sensitive urban design –conservation, wastewater reduction, stormwater management will be implemented by the developer at their discretion. 

• Fire Tanks 

• In Ground Tanks 

• Above Ground Tanks 

• Other 

Water fixtures include: 

• 3-star showerheads 

• 4-star toilet 

• 3-star kitchen taps 

• 5- Star Bathroom Taps/ fixtures and Fittings 

Note: The Water Efficient Labeling and Standards (WELS) scheme helps you compare appliances and Fixtures 

Protect water quality through treatment of waste from septic systems or alternative treatments  

Note: Central systems can reduce potable water use by: 

• Monitoring and managing cooling tower make-up water.  

• Controlling water leakage 

• Storing fire sprinkler test water for reuse during the next test.  

• Providing central rainwater or stormwater harvesting.  

and providing on-site water recycling. 

• Potable water use in common areas can be reduced by: 

• Reducing the water used for landscaping and gardens.  

• Choosing water-efficient fixtures and choosing water-efficient appliances. 

 

Effluent Disposal 

Note: The developer to supply an appropriate AWTS Bio-septic system with trench beds to support a 5 Bedroom house allowance. 

The system is to be designed and installed at the discretion of the developer to an isolated on-site capacity. The system is to be supported by the provision of a water storage facility of 90,000litres (of a legally identified supply quantity) (inland Code 2023) of a recommended capacity supply of 120,000litre of SC. 

 

Guideline: All supplied systems are at the discretion of the developer and are to be included in the sale of land.  

Soil Recycling  

Guidelines- NA 

Waste management – reduce landfill waste, maximize recycling and provision of space for 

Guidelines: NA 

Waste On-Site 

Guidelines: NA  

 

Setbacks 

The creation of a subdivision is the creation of a community. Subdivision design commences with a relatively blank canvas, setting up the life of the community that will extend over hundreds of years. The initial subdivision design presents an enormous opportunity to create the fundamental conditions for a sustainable and resilient community. 

To protect the visual aesthetic of the Village and the Mt Kosciuszko theme within the streetscape please consider the following setback from the boundary unless there is due requirement ie, view to public or highway road corridor.  

Guidelines 

• Front- 4m to the primary residence. 

• Sides- 900mm unless otherwise stated on the complying documentation.           

• Rear- 11m to primary dwelling 

 

Façade Treatments 

All facades directly visible from the street or public places must be of high architectural merit and avoid dominance by garages, blank walls and service areas. 

Guidelines 

Connectivity 

that enables access, walkability, local amenity, and social connections, deliver equitable solutions across different land uses and development sites while allowing for flexibility in site and building design. 

Guidelines 

Amenity & Services   

Such as local shops, schools, medical centers etc. for larger subdivisions. 

Guidelines 

Shared infrastructure and Services 

Guidelines: NA  

Fencing 

 

 

Materials and Colors  

Guidelines: See Specification & Schedules 

• Renewable and low carbon materials 

• Indoor environment quality: airflow, daylight, lighting, toxicity of materials, noise. 

• External walls must contain at least 2 complementary finishes. 

• No reflective materials or bright colors to form part of the façade or roofs of buildings or structures, Matt finishes are required for metal components. 

• Building materials – minimal ecological or health impact, durability, recyclables, locally 

produced materials, use of prefabricated to reduce waste 

 

Building Height  

Guidelines 

Basements & Cellars 

Residences must not exceed 2 stories excluding basements and cellars all other buildings must not exceed 7m 

 

Mandatory requirements 

• The driveway and all vehicle movement paths must within the defined driveway location 

• Driveway access to each Lot may only be from the driveway crossing provided by the developer. 

• Treated effluent must be disposed of within the disposal area or special effluent disposal areas defined for your lot.  

 

Fencing 

Guidelines: See Fencing Schedule  

• Please refer to the fencing schedule- reference Documents  

• Post & Rail: Large, durable posts Sustainably sourced/ recycled. 

• Great resistance to insects and borers 

 

Garages should not be a dominant feature of the residence on the streetscape, the following standards control the provision of garages that face the street: 

Guidelines 

• The garage must be located at least 1m behind the primary residence. 

• Roller doors are not permitted on the front of the Garage. 

• Freestanding garages must be constructed using the same materials as the residence, the appearance of the garage must be consistent with the residence. 

 

AD-Ons 

Guidelines: Clothes drying areas, clothes lines, waste/recycling bin storage and any other storage areas must be screened from public and neighbor views. 

EV- The Village-Fast Charging Facility  

why- electrical car charging 

Transport – connectivity, alternative modes, end of trip facilities, sustainable transport 

hierarchy i.e. walkability, cycling and public transport provision. 

 

Fire Services: Provided by Developer 

• Water Tanks 

• RFS Connection Point 

• Bushfire and Asset Protection Zones 

All proposed dwellings must meet the Bushfire attack level (BAL) rating required under the Bushfire Risk Assessment to be procured by the owner and submitted with the Plans. 

 

8. NOT PERMITTED: must not have- 

• Temporary or removable living accommodation during construction includes caravans, sheds, tents, containers etc. Please Note living on site in any form of temporary and or unapproved structure will not be permitted at any time, before during or after construction. 

 

• Temporary or removable storage structure (shipping containers, etc.). Any site storage required during construction must be stored in a permanent structure forming part of the overall approved design concept. (ie. A shed or garage) 

 

• Roof Mounted Air conditioners 

 

• No Dual Occupancy to every Strata lot or relocatable home is permitted in the estate, unless otherwise agreed to by Snowy Living & MTKE Development 

 

• Mt Kosciuszko is a proactive sustainable development, and we encourage all owners to landscape their residences using the recommended, low maintenance, endemic and deciduous species, that encourages shading and asset protection.  

 

• All landscaping in the development has been chosen to support asset protection measures, so it is important in this instance to ensure that gardens are landscaped and maintained to a high standard, having continuity on site with species will enable a more predictable asset management outcome.  

 

9. MANDATORY: must have 

Landscaping and Retaining walls. 

• All retaining walls visible from the street are to complement the design of the dwelling. 

Sediment erosion controls  

• must be established if required before commencement of construction and maintained until landscaping is completed and well established.  

Driveways 

• The Driveway must be connected to the driveway entry provided by the developer. 

• Driveways must be constructed of a permeable material, concrete or bitumen (green or recycled aggregate) is also acceptable. 

• Driveway lighting may be LED 0% upward light ratio bollard style lighting with maximum height of 900mm. 

Water Tanks 

• Secondary water tanks are permitted but must be of the same chosen material and color of the main tanks.  

Landscape 

• No Planting outside of the building allotment and road reserve. 

• Planting any species on the allotment from the prohibited species list- 

                Fencing 

• Fencing must be constructed as per the approved fencing plan. 

• Any fencing within the allotment of solid construction ie (color bond fencing) excluding screen fencing is approved as part of the submitted landscape plan. 

                  Pools 

• Any pool fencing visible from the street elevation or Saunders Terrace is to be glass panel fencing.  

Building impacts 

• Any impact on the streetscape during construction is to be made good.  

• Lot Descriptions 

Village Lots- 

Vista x 6 - 101A & 101B -102A & 102B – 103A & 103B 

Lifestyle x 6 -107A & 107B - 108A & 108B - 109A & 109B 

Premium x 6 – 104A & 104B - 105A & 105B- 106A & 106B