A house that rotates and another that has just achieved a nine star energy rating are two examples of how residents in Gungahlin, in the ACT, are embracing energy efficient technology.
The rotating house, in the suburb of Crace, will be the first of its kind in the nation’s capital.
Currently under construction, the four-bedroom home, designed by DNA Architects and Industrious Design, will allow its owners to take full advantage of natural light and solar efficiency by rotating with the touch of a button.
The house – dubbed Girasole, meaning follow the sun – can complete a full rotation in less than 10 minutes and can also rotate to track the sun automatically.
The rotation, using twenty-eight wheels and two motors, will require about 100 watts of electricity – about the same as a bright light bulb.
“Although rotating homes were likely to remain a niche market, the eco-friendly design could inspire other projects,” Peter McKay, from Industrious Design said.
A 10.5 kilowatt solar power system will produce enough energy to power the home and its hot water system.
Meanwhile, a nine-star energy rated house in the nearby suburb of Franklin is being heralded as the ‘home of the future.’
Everything from the light bulbs to the garage door have been designed to conserve energy in the home, which features a 3.04kW solar PV system and an 11,700 litre rainwater tank.
Other features include five-layered insulated curtains, skylights and a power point for charging an electric car.
The house also makes use of an insulated thermal-mass wall system that places the insulation on the outside of the concrete.
The design allows the concrete to absorb, store and later release thermal energy into the home.
The home will be officially launched next week, giving the public a chance to view its innovations before its new owners move in before Christmas.
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