Originally Posted by
Airportwo
Couple off points to think about?
If you want a house that is easy to keep cool, how far are you willing to go to achieve that, which equates to how much do you want to spend.
I don't know what "chap" blocks are that you are thinking about using for walls? I did give some consideration to going with double walls but decided against it, mainly because I didn't want to give a home to every stray "creature" from miles around! Finally went with a ~5" thick x ~12" aerated concrete blocks that have a high "R" value.
Windows, in my opinion people tend to put far too many and too large windows in houses here, most times you are not trying to get light in, but keep it out!
Again - my opinion, no sliding windows or doors, the el cheapo sliding windows and doors here barely seal never mind helping keep a low temp.
Plan on insulating the ceiling with at least 6" of insulation and worth thinking about putting a fan high up in the gable with a thermostatic switch to suck out the hot air from the roof void.
Good luck