Rumney Rest, HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year 2013, is a feature in the Channel 7 TWO program titled Australia’s Best Houses, which airs on May 2 at 9:30pm.

Designed by Clever Design’s Mike Cleaver, this house sits 320 metres above sea level in beautiful Tasmania. Built by Cave Constructions, this home has taken the Housing Industry Australia (HIA) title of house of the year 2013. It also scooped prizes in the Building Designers Association Victoria awards for best residential design, new house, most innovative bathroom and excellence in use of steel.

The homeowners wanted to share the land in harmony with the wedge tailed eagles that had made the section their home. In fact, this was one of the priorities of its design.

Another priority is the principles of sustainability that can be seen throughout its design.

The homeowner expressed their desire to retire to this two-bedroom pavilion-style house and requested that the exterior living areas be integrated into the home.

Built on a hill, this home makes the most of the natural land knoll with curvaceous roof protecting the inhabitants from the prevailing strong south westerly winds.

Another bonus of this design is that it allows for stunning views!

This home also features an office/study and large retreat-themed bathroom in a separate wing as well as an independent zone for guests and a carport.

In order to fulfil sustainability goals, an Apricus solar hot water system allows the owners to use the sun to reduce their electricity needs.

Thermal windows are also a feature that help to keep the home warm. This glazing is a form of passive home design that decreases the need for additional heating in Tasmania’s cooler winter period. Sliding glass doors create passive cooling in the warmer summer months, so this house is a winner year round.

Australia’s Best Houses will air on Channel 7TWO at 9.30pm on Friday May 2 – keep an eye out for Apricus’ own Nick Frcek!

For more information about how a solar hot water system can help your home to be more sustainable, contact the friendly team at Apricus for advice about the style and size that will best suit your needs.