Solar Dwellings Project 5

This energy-efficient, passive solar home was designed by Griff Morris and the Solar Dwellings design team. With retaining walls made from recycled stone, a dining table and shelving made from roof timbers and a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, this spacious, two-storey home is the epitome of green living.

The stonework has a stark visual impact from the street that makes it impossible for onlookers to ignore. The home was designed for a family of two adults with three children and required a clever use of space to create an openplan feel with quiet zones for retreat. It features an independent space for grandparents and visiting guests and has a wonderful ambience. A large chef’s kitchen also allows for five people to simultaneously share the space, creating a wonderful unifying atmosphere.

Built by Auscon builders, this family-friendly home demonstrates Solar Dwellings commitment to sustainable living solutions with a wide variety of energy and water saving features. The home promotes cross ventilation, efficient lighting and appliances, above ground rainwater storage and water wise plants.

The stunning rammed earth walls are both aesthetically beautiful and an important passive solar design element. There is a seamless flow between indoor entertaining areas, alfresco living and into the garden, achieved by minimising impact to existing landscaping. An active ventilation heat recovery system removes excess heat from the northern living space to the southern study and bedroom.

Solar Dwellings specialise in passive solar, energy-efficient sustainable homes and have been operating for more than 28 years. The company offers design and construction services throughout Western Australia, as well as sustainable renovations, extensions and retrofit. The team works on approximately 50 homes a year and has a stellar reputation having won 57 awards since 2002.

The team will work with each homeowner to ensure every small requirement is met and that your home will be bursting with charm and character, allowing it to stand out from the rest.