Sustainable build with low environmental impact in Ocean Acres

Ocean Acres has become a very popular lifestyle choice for those who want to live in Torquay but still enjoy the tranquility of rural residential living.

The acreage estate has been transformed to a well-vegetated hinterland community since the original farm paddock was developed more than 20 years ago.

One home in this estate has always attracted a great deal of interest since it was built is 15 Enfield Drive.

Very rarely is a home such as this in the highly desirable Ocean Acres estate offered for purchase; set on a generous 4,800sqm (more than 1 acre approx.) natural bush allotment with half the block containing remnant vegetation including mature manna gums and hedge wattle.

When originally cleared of weeds and debris, the block then revealed green hood and maroon hood orchids, chocolate lilies and guinea flowers which made a wonderful setting for an eco-home.

On the market with Hayden Real Estate, residential sales consultant Simon Bogdanov said that in a time where many builders, developers and homeowners are erecting properties on the Surf Coast with the simple objective of maximizing their return over environmental impact and long-term energy efficiency, this Ocean Acres property stands out.

“With a carefully designed floor plan for multiple living options considered, priority has been given to the home’s energy efficient design, not only for the environmental benefits, but for cost savings purposes also.

“This is the private Surf Coast meets Bush property that ticks all the boxes, suitable for both downsizers or the enviro-conscious young family alike,” Mr Bogdanov said.

Upon entering the Enfield Drive property, the dramatic rammed earth walls set the tone for a home that is built with its external environment taken into consideration which benefits its internal livability.

The many advantages of building with rammed earth include superior thermal mass, temperature and noise control, strength and durability, low maintenance, fire proofing, load bearing and pest deterrence, as well as its beauty and the pleasure of building with a natural and environmentally sound material.

Any non-rammed earth walls present in the home consist of plaster painted with low allergy bio-paint and minimal lined chipboard, all the while reducing any potential allergic reactions the occupiers may possess.

In terms of the flooring throughout the home, ceramic tiles are primarily used in the north-facing rooms to increase thermal mass derived from the streaming sun through the double-glazed windows and doors framed with plantation kiln dried pine.

Cork tiles have then been used in major walkways to reduce everyday physical impact.

Wet areas have been designed with no steps and no screens to again reduce everyday physical impact.

The roofing has been specifically designed to retain the Surf Coast feel with a wave design that extends to the engineered, oversized dual carport at the front of the property.

The energy efficient properties of the home consist of water which is heated using solar panels, boosted as required by gas.

All internal heating is provided from Hydronic Panels which are on a separate gas system to the domestic hot water.

Electricity is generated from Grid interactive solar panels which during summer it is expected to generate more than consumption and a recent increase (to 1.46kw) capacity is expected to meet 75 per cent of consumption annually.

If a property with low environmental impact, sustainability and quality craftsmanship is important to you, then this is the property you have been waiting for!

For more information or to arrange an inspection, phone Simon Bogdanov on 0422 561 570.