If you are looking for a cost effective, off-the-shelf design without compromising quality or aesthetics, we have a selection of plans to choose from.
There are several reasons why people might choose to go with a non-custom design. You might need to get consent quickly, or you might need to take a fixed price to the bank. Sometimes it is easier to start with an existing plan and then modify it to better meet your needs.
Another advantage is that design fees are significantly lower compared to developing a bespoke design.
These plans have been developed by us over the last few years, and have an emphasis of quality over quantity. The market is flooded with large mediocre homes; we are trying to reverse that trend: we think there is more long term value in quality buildings, built to last, that don’t break the budget because of their size. We don’t follow any trends apart from good, enduring design principles.
We agree with the Cactus Clothing Company when they say ‘wear in- not out’. For a building to last the centuries it needs to be loved; our buildings will need to be maintained, but unlike a lot of modern materials, earth, lime and timber can be maintained relatively easily and cheaply long-term. Build something you and your children can love, that will have the least negative impact on their planet.
All designs are strawbale with earth and lime plasters.
Contact us for prices and we can send indicative pricing. Final price depends on your choice of the optional features.
All plans feature the following:
- impressive R-values for all building elements
- natural, non-toxic, low impact, local materials wherever possible
- thermally isolated thermal mass
- a handcrafted feel
- Efficient water fittings
- LED lighting
- renewable heating
- open plan living
- passive solar design
- architecturally designed
…and can be customised with the following:
- solar PV
- custom built kitchens by artisan joiner
- earth floors
- composting toilets
- wetback
- solar thermal water heating
- carports – attached or detached, depending on design
- rainwater harvesting
- grey water recycling
- triple glazed timber framed windows – not as expensive as you think!
- tadelakt bathroom finishes
- Exposed reclaimed woodwork
Those wanting to go the extra mile can upgrade these designs to Certified Passive House.
CLICK ON THE LINKS TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL BROCHURE.
Moraine House
The Moraine House is a 2 stage house, simple in form but exquisite in its detailing. The staged nature of the design allows for a cheaper initial project cost, but with the possibility of extending at a later date. The finished layout provides some sheltered outdoor space and plenty of covered exterior storage. It also has a good amount of internal storage for a modestly sized house and does not waste any space for circulation. A skylight lights up the laundry/storage space behind the living room. A large walk-in pantry is ideal for home produce. The step down between the lounge and the master bedroom provides separation and privacy.
PHPP analysis says this house will use approximately 8kWh/m2.yr – a certified Passive House must use no more than 15kWh/m2.yr… meeting that target easily! We would like to have some NZ data on the thermal properties of straw bales. The calculation of R 7.4 for the wall system is based on international data for straw bales.
Render of Hiberna Morraine House
Pisa House
The Pisa House is a 2 storey house, which is far from simple! This house is for those who enjoy little quirky details and a varied palette of materials. A tiny internal window peeps down from the upstairs landing into the kitchen; a window seat can double as an occasional bed; low windows upstairs will delight children. With concrete or earth floors and a rammed earth wall backing the wood burner, there are high levels of thermal mass. As with all our designs minimal thermal bridging reduces heat loss and good solar access maximises free heat. This is as big as we like to go; a whopping 140 square metres!
Render of Hiberna Pisa House
Lindis Cottage
The Lindis cottage is our little baby – we live in a version of this house! While the plan is a compact 78 square metres we love its cozy feel. High ceilings downstairs make the open plan living area feel deceptively spacious, while the dormer windows allow for extra light and space upstairs. The spiral staircase is a unique and space-saving feature. Our initial Passive House Planning Package analysis shows this house coming in well below the Passive House threshold of 15kWh/m2.yr.
A version of the Lindis Cottage
Lindis Cottage under construction