LITTLE POT OF GOLD

Winner: QLD State Winner

Designer: Talina Edwards, Talina Edwards

Architecture X Envirotecture

Assessor: Luc Plowman, Detail Green

Project cost estimate: $665,000

House size: 134 sqm

Energy rating: 7.8 stars

Little Pot of Gold is a modest 3-bedroom plus study, two bathroom, multi-generational home with indoor and outdoor living areas to accommodate multi-generations with all rooms and spaces universally accessible.

Consideration of the bio-climatic conditions and Passive Solar design principles were integral to ensure the winter sun could enter the home and, during the warmer months, it could be excluded by the eaves and external, operable shading devices.

Smart design choices for the extent of the window-floor area ratio optimises the heat loss/gain and excellent insulation to roof, walls and floor, with a well-sealed thermal envelope means the house does not ‘leak’. The implementation of a heat-recovery mechanical ventilation system (with dehumidification in some locations) ensures minimal heat loss during winter (or coolth in summer) and provides a constant supply of filtered fresh air.

Considering biophilia and beauty, the garden design includes a pond and endemic native plants to improve biodiversity and to respect the local ecology. The residents of Little Pot of Gold will have the ability to harvest rainwater in their non-toxic home while enjoying a front garden that provides connection to the street for community engagement.

The aim was to illustrate that it is a simple and smart choice to use eco bio-based natural materials (locally sourced timber, straw and hemp) to achieve the desired outcomes for Little Pot of Gold’s thermal envelope. The house meets the Liveable Housing guidelines with an accessible bathroom and allowance for ramped access (for timber framed floor options). The second bathroom is a shower room as part of the laundry with a separate toilet to allow occupants to use these spaces at the same time.

Built-in window seats in bedrooms allow for cosy nooks to relax and enjoy the winter sunshine and the built-in seat to the dining area (with incorporated storage) helps connect occupants to the view of the back garden while being an efficient use of space. The open-plan kitchen, living and dining area is a good size with raised raked ceilings to create a sense of spaciousness all connected to the backyard.

Little Pot of Gold is comfortable, healthy and beautiful. Lower bills, more bliss!

Residents can enjoy their front garden that provides connection to the street for community engagement.