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© Copyright September 2003 - Unauthorised use prohibited - Archicentre Limited
ARCHICENTRE BUSHFIRE DESIGN GUIDE
Protection from bushfires for both people and property
has become a significant issue, with legislation now in
place in most states to regulate construction in
designated bushfire-prone areas.
Archicentre, the housing advisory service of the Royal
Australian Institute of Architects, has played a pivotal
role in bushfire situations, sending teams of experts into
fire zones to assess damage and to assist people who
suddenly face the prospect of rebuilding.
As bushfire risk grows,
so does the need for
good design. By using
sound
architectural
design principles, the
home can appropriately
respond
to
the
environment and at the
same time minimise the
threat of being lost to a
bushfire. An Archicentre
architect can show you
how. This guide is for
anyone
intending
to
build, rebuild or renovate
their homes in bushfire-
prone areas. Before you
begin
your
building
project, Archicentre asks
you to consider taking professional advice to ensure that a bushfire resistant
design is put in place.
Bushfire Design Guide
CHOOSING A SITE
Houses should be sited to minimise
the risk - this may mean keeping away
from steep hillsides where the
intensity of the fire can double for
each 10 degrees of slope, or ensuring
enough cleared land is available
between the house and the bush. The
extent of cleared land required varies
according to the type of vegetation in
proximity to the land. Where the
available building area is limited,
design issues for bushfire-prone
areas become paramount and expert
advice is required.
LANDSCAPING
Several landscaping features can slow the momentum of a
bushfire. These include rivers, lakes, dams, swimming pools,
irrigated or green summer crops, orchards, vegetable gardens,
sporting ovals or tennis courts. Many tree species have been
classified as bushfire-resistant and can be used as wind breaks
and barriers. These include native as well as imported species.
Greg Butler
Richard Szklarz