Eltham Strawbale House 2023

House Notes – Eltham Strawbale House

This strawbale post-and-beam house was lovingly constructed by owner-builders with a passion for energy-efficient housing and renewable energy. Located on an acre in a Melbourne suburb only 29kms from the city. This house offers a new perspective on the earth-buildings that Eltham is famous for.

• Beautifully cool in summer and warm in winter using only a small reverse cycle AC in winter during solar hours and used only a couple of times in summer
• Radiant wood heater used rarely
• Showcases recycled and sustainably-grown Australian timbers
• Rendered strawbale walls
• Double-glazed windows built by the owner
• Polished concrete floor
• Owner-built timber staircase
• Passive solar design
• Return veranda
• 10,000L water tank
• 5kW Solar system
• All electrice appliances including induction stove and heat pump hot-water
• Classic clay tennis court

The house uses modern, energy-efficient appliances such as an induction cooktop. Although town gas was available they chose not to connect gas to keep the cost of services to a minimum.
Despite 2 Electric cars the electricity bill is less than most households and there is a plan to add more solar to help off-set even further.
Built between 2015 and 2017, it has been occupied since December 2017. It is still a work-in-progress, but it is a comfortable family home.

The house also achieve 6 stars with the Victorian Residential Efficiency Scorecard and with a 5kW Solar array (which was added after the scorecard) would get a 10 star rating. . If you would like to find out more click here.