News
Search for Lower Energy Bills Turns Aussies to Unique Home Design
January 18, 2026 | IN Media Release and News | BY AVID | 2 min read
With more than 75 per cent of Australians receiving a shock energy bill in the first quarter of 2025, hopeful home buyers are looking to alternative ways to lower their energy usage ahead of the scorching summer season, and split-level homes may be the answer.
Historically, split level blocks have been associated with misconceptions around the build’s complexity and cost, but by working with the land’s natural slope, this style of home can take advantage of natural airflow, cooling breezes and sunlight, limiting the use of air conditioning and artificial lighting.
AVID Property Group (AVID) General Manager New South Wales Danny Boubli said by working with its surrounds, split-level homes can offer more comfort while also saving on energy bills.
“Increasingly home buyers and builders are considering sustainability and cost effectiveness, trying to minimise future costs and environmental impact where possible,” Mr Boubli said.
“A split-level design is a simple way to reduce energy usage, while taking advantage of the numerous other benefits these homes offer, including sweeping views and layout flexibility.
“While building a split-level home can be more expensive than a traditional build, the price of the actual block is usually more affordable – balancing out this build cost and opening the door to more unique designs and the long-term lifestyle and financial benefits of this home style.”
Located in the foothills of the Illawarra Escarpment, AVID’s masterplanned community Forest Reach takes full advantage of the unique topography of the region and growing popularity of energy efficient land, offering several split-level blocks.
“Offering natural elevation and views, our split-level blocks can take full advantage of the picturesque location, looking out over the Illawarra region and lush bushland while catching glimpses of Lake Illawarra in the distance,” Mr Boubli said.
“Our split-level blocks have been stepped and have boundary retaining walls in place, saving time, effort and significant upfront costs in the initial building stages.
“These available blocks are also registered, meaning you can start building straight away and ultimately be in your new home sooner.”
Registered, ready-to-build on blocks are now available in Forest Reach from just $487,000 for a 457m² block, with house and land packages through its builder partners including Evolution Building Group and G.J. Gardner Homes.
For more information, visit forestreach.staging1.avid.com.au.
