We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to ancestors, country and community. We pay our respects to their Elders both past and present and to their enduring cultures.
Gisborne Strawbale House
A home designed and built with prefabricated strawbale panels, offering energy-efficient performance, a healthy living environment, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
LOCATION
Gisborne, Vic
TYPE
Residential
YEAR
2026
STATUS
PROJECT OVERVIEW
A home tailored to its owners
The project originated from the client's desire to create a home perfectly tailored to their needs, both in size and functionality, and with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The result is a highly efficient residence designed for a retired couple, situated in Gisborne, VIC.
01 — Layout
Designed around the way they live
The floor plan features an open-plan living area and kitchen, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Each room has been thoughtfully positioned to maximise passive solar gains in winter and encourage natural cross-ventilation through the summer months, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling.
02 — Construction
Built from timber and straw
The chosen construction system is based on a modular timber frame infilled with straw bales. This approach was selected for its exceptional sustainability credentials, outstanding insulating properties, and the opportunity to drastically reduce operational energy use.
03 — Performance
Comfort with very low running costs
The high thermal performance of the straw envelope ensures the house requires minimal energy for heating, contributing to year-round comfort with very low running costs. Paired with its passive orientation and natural ventilation, the home stays comfortable across the seasons while keeping its environmental footprint — and its running costs — exceptionally low.
