When you hear the term ‘eco-home’, you may envision a timber-clad building coupled with solar panels. But these sustainable homes come in all shapes and sizes. The Aquas Perma Solar Firma by CplusC is a home tailored to the needs of a modern, environmentally conscious and socially responsible couple. Not only is this aesthetically beautiful, but this home has totally reinvented the terrace typology and lifestyle! Shall we go inside?
“A key objective of the design process was to find a way to ensure the design would contribute to the longevity of the building. To this end, a central courtyard provides all internal spaces with superior natural light and access to green spaces despite site restrictions, while planting beds are integrated into the home to improve internal air quality. Seamless integration of green spaces within the home was paramount.” – CplusC
The house combines innovative architectural design with off-grid green initiatives. The Aquas Perma Solar Firma takes sustainability to a whole new level not only by utilising mainly sustainable materials, but it also aims to achieve zero waste which means you don’t throw away anything and find a way to recycle or reuse everything.
This home features an aquaponics system for fish harvesting, rainwater storage for use throughout the home, a wicking bed to filter water, compost, a worm farm and chicken coop working in harmony with a productive vegetable garden, an evacuated glass tube solar hot water system and a 3KW photovoltaic power generation system to run the home and charge the couple’s electric car.
The project includes a central courtyard that provides all internal spaces with superior natural light and access to green spaces despite site restrictions, while planting beds are integrated into the home to improve internal air quality. The brief also called for a versatile primary living space; it should be an entertaining space, a ‘work from home’ space and should be able to transform into a blank canvas at a moment’s notice.
“The clients had lived in the same street for many years before deciding to commission Aquas Perma Solar Firma and since it’s completion, they’ve reported that they socialise regularly with several neighbours. Their home generates so much fresh produce that they share it with their neighbours, creating a neighbourhood co-op of sorts and indirectly they’ve developed greater relationships with their neighbours.” – CplusC
It’s about time that the world started creating more of these amazing eco homes. Opting to build a sustainable home is the best way to make the most out of energy, resources, and materials. With the Aquas Perma Solar Firma project, the clients sure made a choice that will have a lasting impact for generations to come!
House Project: Aquas Perma Solar Firma
Architect: CplusC
Location: Alexandria, Australia
Type: Renovation
Photographer: Michael Lassman, Murray Fredericks
