Creating eco house designs

Owners of a small heritage block in Sydney decided to go with eco house designs, featuring a distinctive skillion roof design.

Planning eco house designs with an architect

Architect Russell Dunn was determined to create new rooms that utilised the full width of the property, and he also wanted to open up the back of the house to the rear yard as part of these eco house designs.

"Light and cross ventilation from the side courtyard were important features to retain in the eco house designs," he says. "I also wanted to achieve winter sun penetration into the southern lounge and high-level windows for efficient ventilation. Good eco house designs make the most of the existing natural elements."

Getting the eco house designs project off the ground took some wrangling with heritage authorities, but with the help of a persuasive town-planning report and a competent heritage consultant, the eco house designs project was given the go-ahead.

Using recycled timbers for the eco house designs

Owners Edith and Martin wanted an extension that reflected the industrial history of the area. This has been achieved through the use of recycled materials, predominantly Sydney blue gum.

Recycled timber is used in the floors, windows and doors in the back room, with the latter two elements taking six months to complete because of the difficulty of finding high-quality timber and someone to do it justice.

The roof form, which is visible from the rear lane only, reflects the angle and materials of the neighbour's rear roof. "The lighting, rhythm and hand-crafted timber of the pergola and column inside without detracting from the more refined detailing of the lounge interior," explains Russell.

Storage space

Providing sufficient tool storage for Martin, a handyman, was a challenge, given the lack of available space. To get around this, Russell designed outdoor cupboards that have been integrated into the rear of the house and within the new carport's side setback.

For the couple, and for Russell, the standout feature is the striking Sydney blue gum. "We could have opted out and gone with Oregon, but would have always wondered 'What if?'" says Edith. "We persisted and love the end result."

Contact an architect and find out how you can make your eco house designs energy efficient: