Things To Consider When Building Your New Home
Designing and building a rural house in Tenterfield, NSW, requires special consideration of the unique environment, lifestyle, and practical needs of rural living.
Climate and Weather
Insulation and Heating: Tenterfield experiences cold winters, so ensure your house is well-insulated and consider installing efficient heating systems like wood stoves, fireplaces, or underfloor heating.
Natural Ventilation: Summers can be warm, so design your home to maximize natural ventilation. Consider cross-ventilation, ceiling fans, and shading to keep the house cool.
Weatherproofing: Ensure the house is built to withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and occasional frost, common in the Tenterfield area.
Orientation and Solar Access
Passive Solar Design: Position your house to take advantage of the sun’s path. North-facing windows will allow for maximum natural light and warmth in living areas, reducing energy costs.
Sunset and Sunrise Views: Consider the orientation to capture beautiful rural vistas, including sunrise and sunset views, which are often spectacular in Tenterfield.
Water Supply and Management
Rainwater Harvesting: Install rainwater tanks to capture and store water, especially important in rural areas where mains water may not be available or reliable.
Water-Efficient Fixtures: Use water-efficient taps, toilets, and appliances to conserve water, particularly during dry periods.
Greywater Systems: Consider a greywater recycling system for irrigation to make the most of available water.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Solar Power: Invest in solar panels and possibly battery storage to reduce reliance on the grid and take advantage of Tenterfield’s sunny conditions.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: Choose energy-efficient appliances and lighting to minimise power usage.
Sustainable Materials: Use locally sourced, sustainable building materials that suit the rural setting and have a lower environmental impact.
Site Access and Infrastructure
Driveway and Road Access: Ensure easy and all-weather access to the property. Gravel or paved driveways are essential for navigating rural roads, especially in wet conditions.
Utility Connections: Plan for the installation of essential utilities, including electricity, water, and septic systems, as rural properties often require off-grid solutions or significant setup work.
Bushfire Protection
Building Standards: Adhere to the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating requirements for your property, which dictate specific building materials and designs to protect against bushfires.
Defensible Space: Create a defensible space around the house by clearing vegetation, maintaining a buffer zone, and using fire-resistant plants in landscaping.
Emergency Plan: Have a bushfire emergency plan in place and ensure access to water sources like tanks or dams for firefighting.
Rural Aesthetics and Design
Blend with the Landscape: Design your home to complement the natural surroundings. Use materials and colors that blend with the environment, like stone, timber, and earthy tones.
Verandas and Outdoor Living: Include wide verandas or covered outdoor areas to enjoy the rural setting and provide shade during the summer.
Farmhouse Style: Consider traditional farmhouse or country-style architecture, which not only suits the rural setting but also provides practical benefits like large eaves and open floor plans.
Local Regulations and Council Requirements
Tenterfield Shire Council Approval: Obtain the necessary planning and building approvals from the Tenterfield Shire Council. Understand zoning laws, land use restrictions, and building codes specific to the area.
Heritage Considerations: If your property is in a heritage area, comply with any additional restrictions or requirements for building or renovating.
Security and Privacy
Fencing and Gates: Install sturdy fencing and gates to secure your property and manage livestock or wildlife.
Natural Privacy: Use trees, hedges, or landscaping features to create privacy from neighboring properties while maintaining the open, rural feel.
Connectivity and Communication
Internet and Phone Access: Rural areas often have limited connectivity, so plan for reliable internet and phone services, possibly through satellite or other alternative providers.
Backup Power: Consider a backup generator or additional battery storage to ensure power during outages, which can be more frequent in rural areas.
Storage and Outbuildings
Sheds and Workshops: Include ample storage space for tools, equipment, and vehicles. Rural properties often benefit from additional outbuildings like barns, workshops, or garages.
Water Storage and Firefighting Equipment: Allocate space for water tanks, pumps, and firefighting equipment, which are crucial in rural settings.
Wildlife and Environmental Considerations
Respect for Wildlife: Design your property to minimise impact on local wildlife habitats. Consider incorporating wildlife corridors or planting native vegetation to support local species.
Pest Control: Plan for pest control measures to protect your home from insects, rodents, and other rural pests.
Enquire Today

1300 657 646
0438 268 424

02 6736 3377
0428 100 328
Building a rural home in Tenterfield requires thoughtful consideration of the climate, landscape, and rural lifestyle. By prioritising energy efficiency, sustainability, and local regulations, and by designing a home that blends with its natural surroundings, you can create a comfortable and resilient home that perfectly suits the unique demands of rural living in NSW.