The client for the project has a long standing interest in building sustainability developed through working at the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA).

The project is sited on the south side of Mona Vale Headland and has expansive views over Mona Vale Beach to the south. This south facing aspect and the narrow site proportions combine to limit the passive design potential and accordingly establish the key design challenge for the project.

Our response orients the house toward the view to the south, but opens up the roof at the centre of the house with a large north-facing skylight to admit winter sun to the south facing living areas and to trap and hold the warmth of the winter sun using the thermal mass of the structure.

Other sustainability measures include a 15,000 L rainwater storage tank combined with grey water recycling to minimise water usage, the use of evacuated tubes for in floor heating and hot water supply, and photovoltaic solar panels to provide electricity back to the grid.

Collaborators:
Simpson Design & Associates, Northrop, ExParrot, Cave & Associate

Picture Credit:

photos 1-7 Brett Boardman

photos 8-15 Simon Whitbread