Here’s a home that expertly balances good looks, clever use of space, environmental friendliness and running costs. It all comes in an inviting 171sqm package that feels much more spacious than its footprint suggests. The timber exterior settles the home into its rural environment, with the Richmond Ranges as a backdrop. These views are welcomed into the two-bedroom, two-bathroom home through sliders and windows. Inside, you’re greeted with high ceilings and open-plan living areas that make the most of the vistas. Timber is a recurring feature – you’ll find Japanese cedar lining the lounge ceiling and a feature wall in the main bedroom. These, along with wood tones in the kitchen cabinetry, engender a feeling of natural warmth. The natural approach continues – this off-grid home has been cleverly designed to maximise the sun. Aluminium joinery to the north invites winter rays into the main living area and bedrooms where heat is absorbed and released by polished concrete floors. This passive energy, teamed with wool-fibre insulation and a fireplace, keeps things toasty and negates the need for additional heating. Hot water is provided by
the wetback fire in winter and solar panels in summer.