Eco-friendly. It is a phrase often used, but not always carried out to the ultimate degree. This home in Sorrento, however, could hardly do any more to minimise its footprint on the environment.
Platinum Homes feel that not only is it responsible, but also stylish and of high quality.
The home was designed by owners Mark and Kathy Bancroft and Platinum took up the challenge. Mr and Mrs Bancroft knew that they wanted to maximise nature and did all they could to make it happen.
The block is axe-shaped, wide at the front, tapering to a point at the rear with an existing 2m retaining wall splitting the land. The pair even lived for a year in the old cottage which was on the block to fully understand the breeze and sun patterns which they utilised in the final design.
Angles abound, the walls are of varying colours and the upper level takes up only part of the building. The wooden frame allied to the lightweight acrylic outdoor cladding and lightweight interior walls, helps keep the home cool in summer and warm in winter.
Every wall and every ceiling and roof space is insulated, the polished concrete floor does not absorb heat and the zinc roof reflects more sun.
All windows are interrelated, which allows for a full air flow throughout. In fact, the home does not have either air-conditioning or heating. “And we don’t need them,” say the owners.
From the front door, a wide entry leads to the massive kitchen with its pantry leading to the laundry. The kitchen has a steam/convection oven as well as a conventional one. The hotplates are induction and all appliances use minimum power.
Unusually for modern homes, the dining and living area is detached from the kitchen, but can be seen as the cook works.
The main suite is on the ground floor and has sliding doors to the garden. The twin-showered Ensuite is behind the walk-in robe and the walls are angled.
Upstairs, the main space is divided by a half-height L-shaped wall and contains three more bedrooms – all with awning windows - and a big children’s activity area known by the family as the “play cube”.
By Len Findaly - West Australian Newspapers