An ‘earthship‘ is a type of house that exists on the delicious, lunatic-fringe end of the green building world. Earthships in Australia are quite rare; the original prototypes built by Michael Reynolds are in New Mexico, USA. They are heavy stone-clad tyre structures with almost ugly greenhouse-style walls facing towards the sun. The back rooms, built into...
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Before we get started, let me be honest. I design houses. So naturally when I write this article about how to find the right architect or building designer, I am steering you towards… well, me! But this post is going to be read by people from all over the world and despite the fact that I would love to design you your dream place in Seattle or London, I am sticking...
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Almost everyone hates architects. And there are good reasons for it. The architectural profession has been around since the design and construction of the pyramids in ancient Egypt. Back then, there were no engineers or other technical professionals. The architect’s involvement was vital and without them the structure would fall down, catch fire, sink into the mud...
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You don’t need a super-fantastic-amazing funny-looking low energy house to cut down your home energy use if you know what you’re looking for. Not every house in suburbia is a low energy house. You have probably noticed it yourself. Some homes are just naturally bright and sunny. They’re always nice to be in and mysteriously toasty warm in winter. During...
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Designed in conjunction with: Pat Swain Designed in conjunction with: Ross Graham Builder: Henry Vrielink Located in the new Bella Vista estate of Cooma, NSW. this unique pair of townhouses takes advantage of their ridgetop position, opening onto cooling easterly winds. The main residence frames views to the north through the Bunyan Valley, while the...
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Original vision: Julie Simpson Designed in conjunction with: Pat Swain When Julie Simpson brought us her design for these three spacious and comfortable townhouses, we helped her refine and realise that vision. The project offers a strong contribution to the developing urban character of the new Bella Vista Estate. The striking rooflines allow the...
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Designed in conjunction with Pat Swain In conjunction with DMW Design Builder: Robbie Salvestro Recently constructed in Cooma, the Werri-Nina Centre provides services to the elderly and those with disabilities. Although quite a large building, its classic wide verandah gives it more of a residential feel, as well as complementing the ornate verandahs...
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