Building a Sustainable Future: Insights from Troy Harris of Harris Build
The Shift Towards Sustainable Construction
Sustainability in construction is no longer just a trend; it’s becoming the foundation of modern building practices. Homebuyers, builders, and industry professionals are all increasingly prioritising sustainable construction to create homes that are both eco-friendly and high-performing. One builder at the forefront of this shift is Troy Harris, founder of Harris Build. In a recent podcast, Troy shared his journey and the lessons learned while building sustainable homes in The Cape, a community dedicated to sustainable living.
This blog will explore key takeaways from that interview, including the challenges Troy has faced, the innovations in design and construction, and his insights into why sustainable construction is crucial for the future of the housing industry. We’ll also look at how energy-efficient homes, sustainable house designs and sustainability in construction are reshaping the way homes are built.
Listen to the full podcast episode here: Full Podcast Interview with Troy Harris.
The Journey of Troy Harris & Harris Build
Troy Harris' career in construction began early, straight after he left school. “I guess I always knew I wanted to be a builder,” Troy shares. “I finished school in Year 10 and got straight into the trade.” It wasn’t until later in his career that Troy focused on sustainable construction. “At first, it was the design that really got me excited about sustainability,” he explains, “not knowing so much about the sustainable stuff, but the design was appealing.”
Over the years, Troy transitioned from traditional building methods to focusing on sustainable construction and design. As he became more educated about eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient techniques, his passion grew, and he founded Harris Build, a company dedicated to delivering custom-built homes that are both stylish and sustainable. Living in The Cape allowed Troy to experience firsthand the challenges and rewards of building with sustainability in mind.
Key Challenges & Innovations in Sustainable Construction
Building energy-efficient homes comes with its set of challenges, especially when working in unique environments like The Cape. “Everyone wants an ocean view,” Troy explains, “but it doesn’t always work with the energy needs of the house.” The challenge lies in balancing the desire for large windows with the need for insulation and energy efficiency. "It’s tricky because we have to accommodate the client’s vision while still ensuring the home performs well," he says.
To overcome these challenges, Harris Build uses innovative techniques like blower door testing and thermal imaging. These tools help ensure that the homes they build are airtight, energy-efficient, and comfortable year-round. “Once you live in a house like this, it’s hard to go back,” Troy notes. “You don’t realise how well it performs until you’ve lived in a house with air leaks and mould.”
One of the most important lessons Troy has learned is the value of collaboration. Working closely with designers, homeowners, and other builders allows Harris Build to create homes that meet high standards of sustainability in construction while also addressing the aesthetic and functional needs of the client.
Real-world examples from The Cape include homes that blend modern design with smart solutions like passive solar heating, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient insulation.
The Future of Sustainable Construction & Advice for Industry Professionals
As demand for high-performance homes grows, Troy believes that sustainability in the construction industry will continue to evolve. However, the path forward comes with challenges, especially in attracting and training skilled tradespeople. “We’ve learned more in the last five years doing projects in this area than we did previously,” says Troy. “It’s a constantly evolving process, and we’re always learning.”
Troy also highlights the importance of education. At Harris Build, all team members are employees, which gives them the opportunity to sit down after each project and assess what went well and where they can improve. “We can actually see how well the insulation worked or how airtight the house is using tools like the thermal camera,” Troy explains. “We make sure apprentices understand why we do what we do.”
For those looking to enter the world of sustainable house builders, Troy advises investing in knowledge and collaboration. “It’s all about working with others, learning from each project, and never stopping your education,” he says.
Building Better Homes for a Better Future
Troy’s insights into sustainable construction paint a hopeful picture for the future of building. As the industry continues to adapt to the increasing demand for eco-friendly homes, it’s clear that construction and sustainability must go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re a builder, homeowner, or industry professional, prioritising sustainability will result in more comfortable, energy-efficient homes for generations to come.
If you’re ready to build your own sustainable house design or learn more about the innovative methods that Harris Build uses, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact the team at Harris Build for a consultation or explore their projects for inspiration.
For more insights on sustainable construction, be sure to listen to the full podcast episode, and take the first step toward creating a home that’s as beautiful as it is sustainable. Ready to get started? Visit Harris Build to see how they can help you build your dream home with sustainability in construction as a top priority.
