Armidale is becoming widely known for embracing the concept of sustainable living. This magnificent straw bale home is the embodiment of what it means to live sustainably but also with all the amenity of the 21st century. Totally off the grid, this 25 acre property simply must be seen to appreciate the cleverness of design.

The 350 m2 home has been designed with 3 distinct but beautifully integrated precincts. The first comprises the impressive entrance space, large open plan kitchen with large cooker and Miele dishwasher, a great dining and living area. The second includes 4 bedrooms, a family bathroom and a substantial laundry together with a rumpus area ideal as a teenage retreat. The third precinct accommodates the master suite with walk in robe, superb en-suite bathroom and a living area that has been pre-plumbed for a new kitchen. This precinct could easily be used as a separate apartment.

High ceilings abound throughout the home. Double glazing has been used to moderate temperature and provide added ambient control. Also, a range of interesting floor treatments has been used to enhance the overall feel, presentation and thermal performance of the residence. Ambient temperature only varies between 17-23 degrees all year round and without the need for air-conditioning. A solar hot water system is supplemented by 2 instantaneous gas heaters at each end of the house.

The home is powered using a large 3.0 kW solar array, 700 Ah battery bank with 6.5 kVA petrol generator back up. Essentially it was designed to provide sufficient power to operate the home as if connected to the grid. A grey water distribution system has been installed. Water is roof collected and housed in a 135,000L tank for use within the house.

The property has largely been left as native bush with the area around the house cleared and various entertaining spaces created using Brendan Moar designs. Yellow Box and Red Gum abound. In addition, vegetable gardens, a chook run, gardens and lawns have all been established. A 4,500L tank is fed from a dam and used to water the garden. The overall emphasis is on sustainability and amenity.

This home is quite exceptional and has won an award for excellence. It is absolutely the best of breed and a must to inspect.