built with a view towards a more sustainable future

The initial design for River Minka was based on a 1920’s horse tack shed which was existing on the property. We built with second hand materials where we could, and with sustainably sourced timber and materials where possible. The house is connected to a grid tied solar power system. The orientation of the house allows passive heating and cooling from the sun, in the winter it enters through the north facing windows and heats the thermal mass of the concrete floor. In summer the deck awning offers a break from the direct sun and screened windows on the south allow cool air to enter on hot summer nights. The walls and roof ceilings are a thicker then average depth with extra insulation. The design incorporated materials which we had available, second hand windows and doors, including stained glass out of 1970’s church.