The Rammed Earth House by Steffen Welsch Architects was their first project to apply environmentally sustainable design principles throughout. Located to the northeast of Victoria, the site is relatively remote and has no energy or water supply. To minimize site construction, the roof elements were prefabricated, which also allows for large column free ceilings.
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The design is for a simple and compact home with a butterfly roof that works to hold solar panels and collect rainwater. A 110,000 liter rainwater tank stores all the water needed for the home and the photovoltaics generate all the energy. Rammed earth walls form the entire building and windows are situated for cross ventilation to eliminate the need for air conditioning in the summer. Thermal mass of the walls maintains a relatively constant temp inside and only a single heater is needed for warmth in the winter.
Images ©Steffen Welsch Architects
