Twenty years ago we renovated a 50 year old weatherboard while applying energy-saving principles, we literally halved our electricity bills and hence the size of the solar system we needed to install – all saving very significant sums of money. Hence, having sold the property and planning to build a home for our retirement we designed carefully around the core principles for both energy efficient usage and accessibility.
Designed on Passiv Haus principles to minimise energy use now and allow accessibility as we age. Features are fully insulated external walls, underfloor and roof space; windows double glazed with broken frames, west facing with honeycomb blinds; ceiling fans in all rooms; 9.6Kw solar system; Tesla battery; dedicated EV charging plug; wine cellar temperature controlled at 15 deg C; wide awnings on north facing windows; opening clerestory windows to allow escape of hot air; built-in elevator; fully electric except for gas al fresco BBQ (gas cylinder); induction cooktop; 10,000 litres rainwater tanks.
House was pressure tested at 1.7 air changes per hour during construction hence an HRV system was installed.
House was rated at 7.4 stars.
All heating and cooling is via heat-pump technology eg spa, swimming pool, one back-up air conditioning unit on each level (rarely needed), and hot water supply – 6 in total.
German ‘Shaker’ wood-burning fire for ambience only – externally flued.
Our power bills are routinely in credit.
Garden designed for minimum water use and maximum wildlife attraction with linked ponds, water recirculating and bird baths. Seven wicking beds for growing vegetables and herbs for kitchen use with espaliered orchard along fence.
