At Reimagined Habitat, we talk a lot about the connection between healthy homes and sustainable design. But research like the Victorian Healthy Homes Program brings this conversation to life, proving that improving the thermal performance of a home isn’t just about saving energy. It’s about protecting people’s well-being, especially during the colder months.

A Quick Overview of the Research

The Victorian Healthy Homes Program was a large-scale, randomised controlled trial that looked at the impact of modest energy efficiency upgrades in older Victorian homes — many of which were built before 1991 and average under 2 stars for energy performance.

With an average spend of just $2,809 per home, the upgrades included measures like draught-sealing, insulation, and minor heating improvements. The results? Surprisingly big.

Key Findings

Here’s what stood out:

• Increased warmth: Indoor temperatures rose by an average of 0.33°C, with the biggest gains in the early morning (the coldest part of the day).
• Less exposure to cold: Time spent in temperatures below 18°C reduced by 43 minutes per day.
• Improved thermal comfort: Householders were twice as likely to report their home felt warmer, even without using their main heater as often.
• Less condensation: This has important implications for moisture control and indoor air quality.
• Lower gas usage: While warmth improved, energy use actually dropped, with no increase in electricity use or reliance on secondary heating.
• Better health and quality of life: People reported less breathlessness, improved mental health, and greater social connection, simply because they felt comfortable enough to host visitors or move freely around their home.
• Healthcare savings: On average, each person saved $887 in health-related costs during the winter period alone.
• Fast payback: The cost of the upgrades was paid back in under 3 years, with a net saving of $4,783 over 10 years.

Read the full report here:

👉 Victorian Healthy Homes Program Report – Summary & Findings

What This Means for Our Homes

This research proves what we’ve long believed — a well-insulated, energy-efficient home is a healthier home.

And it doesn’t take a major renovation to make a major difference.

At Reimagined Habitat, we design all of our Net Zero Habitat homes with comfort and health in mind. From high-performance insulation and triple-glazed windows to draught-proofing and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, every detail is considered — because warm, efficient homes don’t just reduce bills and emissions. They can improve lives.

And that’s something we take seriously.

Ready to Live Better?

If you’re building a new home — or want to learn how your home design can support better health and wellbeing — we’re here to help. Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, comfort, or long-term livability, let’s reimagine what’s possible, together.

📲 Explore our healthy home designs or book a chat with our team: