This sleek, contemporary home at Cape Paterson in the eco village development ‘The Cape’ was built with a specific agenda – to show that sustainability can be beautiful! The Sociable Weaver (TSW) is a developer committed to creating practical, economic and environmentally conscious homes, and in this project worked with architect firm Clare Cousins to create a home that exemplifies this ethos, without compromising on style.
Dave Martin of The Sociable Weaver explains the intent of the project: ‘we wanted to show that we could create a home that was 10 star, carbon positive, as close to zero waste as possible, incorporating building biology dynamics, and ultimately beautifully designed.’ Dave was familiar with the work of Clare Cousins Architects, and saw the potential of aligning the environmental principles of TSW, with the design credentials of the celebrated Melbourne architecture firm.
The coastal home uses passive solar design and cross ventilation to avoid the need for heaters or air conditioning, while double glazing keeps the warmth in. Other eco credentials include the use of Forest Stewardship Council certified hardwood, photovaltic solar panels on the roof, and the use of natural sealants and paints. While the home was designed to showcase The Sociable Weaver’s sustainable build credentials, Dave highlights ‘we ultimately hope the standard of this build becomes mainstream.’
Being green isn’t always easy, and Dave highlights the difficulties of balancing a zero waste philosophy (amazingly, only three garbage bags of landfill were created in this project!), with high standards for the build itself, and of course, a commitment to carbon neutrality. He describes it was like ‘designing a Swiss watch – all components must work in unison, as they have an overall effect on the energy rating.’
The 10 Star House is an exciting project for its ability to demonstrate just what is possible when forward-thinking architecture meets environmental ideals. Dave describes ‘by doing this, it creates a ripple effect – bringing these philosophies and building projects more into the mainstream.’ For The Sociable Weaver, this home has set a new benchmark for the future.
Australian skincare company Sukin do everything they can to ensure our environment is protected. From partnering with Reef Aid to ensure the Great Barrier Reef has a future, to fully offsetting their carbon footprint. Discover the world of natural, and read more about their sustainability efforts at the Sukin Journal.
