Hempcrete Co-living Passive House in Castlemaine
Set on 10.3 acres (approx) in the peaceful surrounds of Muckleford, The Open Field House is a landmark 8-bedroom residence that redefines sustainable living. Designed to passive house standards, this extraordinary home combines architectural integrity, environmental consciousness, and climate resilience.
Just minutes from Castlemaine, the property nestles into its landscape with a deep respect for nature, offering pristine air quality, calming acoustics, and an energy profile that places it in the top 0.2% of homes nationwide. Constructed by one of Victoria's most respected builders, Sandford Build Co, the craftsmanship and care radiate from every detail in this home.
Sustainability & Passive Design Excellence
> Passive solar orientation excludes summer sun while welcoming deep winter light
> Zehnder ComfoAir 450 Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery system delivers continuous fresh, filtered air
> Airtight breathable membranes, thermal mass hempcrete walls, and high-grade insulation (R8.0 ceiling, R5.0 floor, R4.0 walls)
> Year-round stable temperature, humidity, and fresh air
> NatHERS rating of 8.2 stars (effective 9.1 with Passive House systems), placing it in the top 0.2% of homes nationwide
> Estimated to use just 15% of the energy of a conventional home
Lifestyle, Functionality & Retreat Potential
> Expansive large dam (30-million-litre capacity) with underground ring main servicing orchard, chickens, and a productive market garden
>200,000L of rainwater storage, 1,000m2 of rainwater catchment
> A biological septic system irrigates an orchard of 60 fruit and nut trees
This property has wheelchair access


















