Mayr Residence

A multitude of environmentally sustainable concepts were considered and included the impacts on the environment by living on ecologically sensitive land, energy consumption, re-use of waste and actually living in and with the natural environment. For instance the builder found 14 brown tree snakes living in the roof of the original structure. The sustainable concepts identified were encompassed by a single word – simplicity, and this drove the entire design and building ethos. An elaborate and complex house with its associated automation and sophisticated electrical appliances was not on the agenda. Springbrook has a relatively extreme climate ranging from hot summer months to cool winter months. Shading, sunlight and the retention of heat would be critical. The main outdoor living area would need to maximize the use of shade in summer and benefit from direct sun in winter.