Designing for WA conditions means more than just good looks — it’s about creating a home that works with the local climate, lifestyle, and environment.
From long summers to sandy soils, the right design choices can make your new home more comfortable and efficient year-round.
Whether you’re building your first home or planning for your family’s future, these WA-focused ideas will help you get the most from your block and your build.
Embrace Local Lifestyle Through Layout
Designing for WA conditions starts with understanding how we live here — and planning your layout accordingly. Open-plan living zones that flow into the alfresco make everyday family life feel connected and relaxed. Positioning these areas to catch morning light or afternoon breezes can elevate the way you enjoy your home.
Consider how you’ll use each space throughout the day. A quiet study nook positioned away from the living zone supports working from home, while a kitchen with sightlines to the backyard is ideal for keeping an eye on the kids. These practical touches make your home more liveable — especially in Perth’s sunny, outdoor-oriented climate. Zircon Living’s home designs and custom homes are created with this in mind, so you can enjoy a layout that matches your lifestyle from day one.
Create Shade and Shelter Where It Counts
In WA, strong sun and sudden weather shifts are part of the deal — so creating shade and shelter is key. This can be achieved with well-placed eaves, verandahs, or pergolas that protect windows and outdoor living spaces from harsh heat and glare.
Homes that are designed for these conditions don’t just feel more comfortable — they last longer too. Shaded façades help protect external materials, while breezy, covered alfrescos extend the life of outdoor furniture. Designs like The Entertainer and The Family Home showcase how thoughtful shading and orientation come together to support year-round comfort.
Embrace Indoor-Outdoor Living with Smart Design
WA is known for its love of outdoor living — so your home should embrace it. Alfresco zones, courtyards, and connected garden spaces are all great ways to expand your usable living area and make the most of Perth’s climate.
But it’s not just about having a patio — it’s how your indoor and outdoor areas flow together. Large sliding doors, servery windows from the kitchen, and shaded outdoor dining zones can help blur the line between inside and out.
Looking for inspiration? The Entertainer and The Family Home are great examples of how Zircon Living designs support everyday connection with the outdoors — perfect for relaxed WA living.
Build in Comfort That Lasts Through the Seasons
WA homes need to keep up with changing temperatures — without relying on heating and cooling systems all day long. That’s where insulation, ventilation, and shading come into play.
Ceiling and wall insulation keeps warmth in during winter and heat out during summer. Cross-ventilation — created by placing windows opposite each other — allows fresh air to flow naturally, cooling your home during hot afternoons.
Adding ceiling fans, awnings, or planting shade trees outside west-facing windows can also make a noticeable difference. All of these strategies work together to reduce your energy use, support comfort, and create a home that’s easier to live in — season after season.
Explore more ideas in our blog on sustainable home design, or visit our display homes to see WA-friendly features in action.
Build for Life in WA With Zircon Living
At Zircon Living, we design homes that respond to local conditions — from climate to lifestyle and everything in between. Our Perth-based team understands what works in WA and brings that knowledge into every design.
Looking to build a home designed for your block, your lifestyle, and WA conditions?
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