Living Laboratory
- 2008 National HIA Greensmart “Building of the Year”!
- 2008 Nth Rivers / Gold Coast HIA , Most Sustainable Home
- 2008 HIA State Award Best Energy Efficient House of the Year
- 2009 BDAQ Regional Building Design Award Winner
The Brief
The clients and owners Landmatters Pty Ltd, developers of “The Ecovillage” in Currumbin Valley, wanted an exemplary residence that showcases World’s Best Practice in sustainable design and living, and create Australia’s most sustainable residence. A co-operative design effort resulted in a multi award winning and much published home. This home has become part of the Qld Sustainable Homes Program and was operated in Partnership with the Qld. Government Dept. of Public Works and Housing.
The Vision
To improve residential construction by conceiving and implementing innovative design and building componentry. To test, monitor and improve building innovation throughout building occupation. To demonstrate “affordable” sustainable living.
The Solution
This has been achieved by utilising sustainable strategies addressing the following areas:
- Energy use – 1.5kW Photovoltaics, energy efficient lighting and appliances, Ecovision – Intelligent Monitoring Control System, maximising orientation, Solar Hot Water, etc etc. A Ritek roof system provides an R3 rating. Protherm insulation to walls.
- Embodied Energy – 80% Recycled materials incl. timber, steel stumps, vanities, kitchen, etc. Locally produced products including stonework, insulation.
- Water use – Entirely self sufficient. All black and gray water treated and recycled for toilets and garden.
- Affordability – The house was built for approx. $250,000 on land less than $200,000 in 2007.
- Toxicity – All water delivery is in HDPE piping (no PVC). Low VOC paints, EO boards instead of melamine, Natural materials instead of synthetic, No CCA treated timber.
