The Watershed Landcare Spring Sustainable Homes Tour is exploring some of the many different ways to design and build a Sustainable Home.

The October Tour visited a unique earth-covered home built 25 years ago. Members and visitors enjoyed a delightful afternoon visit on a hot day, either chatting in the cool loungeroom, or sitting under the mature trees taking in the views.

The architect considered all aspects of this home and its position in the landscape. The building platform was cut into the side of a hill; the long, narrow home was constructed facing slightly west of north; appropriate sealing and drainage was installed, and earth was back-filled along the rear wall, on the roof, and partially along the two side walls.

The home has an inviting and nurturing quality. It is seen (and anticipated) from various views at turns in the driveway. Earth banks either side of the building appear to be welcoming arms, embracing the home and creating a sheltered outdoor living area. Volcanic rock removed during the building phase has been used very effectively as features in the landscaping. This home sits very comfortably tucked into its hill, with 9 doors opening from the northern rooms direct to the outside, and Banksia Roses tumbling from the rooftop.

The insulation of the earth covering combined with the thermal mass of the concrete walls, gives a very stable internal temperature range. The owners rarely need to light the fire for warmth as 15–25ºC year-round is very pleasant. All rooms receive natural light. The bathrooms have skylights which project above the ground and can be seen from the interesting pebble roof-top path.

The building process for this home was somewhat arduous as tradesmen were required to do things a little differently from the usual. Detailed plans from the architect were utilised by the owners who acted as owner-builders and directed the workers.

The next Sustainable Homes Tour will be held on Saturday 21 November in the Mudgee area 1.30–3.30 (approx) and will feature natural building materials such as straw bales and mud bricks. Tours are free for members; non-members and visitors are welcome for $5 donation. Join us for an opportunity to chat together, look and learn, share ideas, and be inspired.

Enquiries and registrations: Rosemary Hadaway 0411755682 or rosemary.hadaway@gmail.com