north east regional extra | 12 - 19 September, 2018
nemedia.com.au
1.
12 - 19 September, 2018
Green
houses
By KYLIE WILSON SUSTAINABILITY and ingenuity go hand in hand for those behind the homes that will be open to the public this year for Sustainable House Day this Sunday. Nestled on a walnut farm in the tranquil bush surrounds of Gapsted is one such home - Cortes Kiln - owned by local resident Ronaldo Cortes. The home is in high demand on Airbnb, and Ronaldo said the backbone of the home is a historic, century old brick tobacco kiln, indelibly tied to the history of the area. In the renovation, which was designed by Whispering Smith Architects, the original fibro shack that was attached to the kiln was stripped back, and its timber frame was clad in a translucent skin as well as recycled timber. The overall aim was a solar passive design, which includes insulated living and sleeping areas, an internal green courtyard, thermodynamic hot water system, solar panels, and ground level gutters to reduce fire risk. Ronaldo, who lives nearby, said he worked alongside the architect to create the home’s minimal, Scandinavian design and added that during the building process, it was important to him to use local tradespeople and source materials as much as possible from local businesses. The garden is also filled with native and water wise plants, with composting and organic elements. Ronaldo said that he also plans to eventually live in the home himself and added that it was designed for minimal living.
◆ PAST MEETS FUTURE: Ronaldo Cortes at Cortes Kiln in Gapsted. PHOTO: Ben Hosking.
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GARDEN HINTS
PET CARE
WINE TALK
TECH & SCIENCE
TV GUIDE
with MANDI
with SHELLY
with ANITA
with CHRIS
REVIEW TRUE STORY
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