Perth Voice Interactive

IF all new homes were as environmentally sustainable as this one in Bayswater, Australia would be well on the way to meeting its carbon emissions target.

The three-bedroom dwelling on Aughton Street is certified as producing 83 per cent less CO₂ than an average new home.

Skewed at an interesting angle to make the most of a northern orientation, the polished concrete floor in the spacious open-plan is a heat trap in the winter and keeps things cool in summer.

Outside, bespoke jarrah louvres make the timber-deck alfresco a pleasant spot all year round.

A heat-recovery unit pumps out cold air and sucks in warm air during winter, and reverses the process in summer, meaning the air conditioning will barely be used.

As I went outside to look at the low-maintenance rear garden, with raised garden beds and super-high fencing, I realised how warm it was inside and wished I hadn’t taken my coat off.

There’s a rain water tank plumbed into the toilet and washing machine, insulated exterior walls, and the power from solar panels feeds into a 10kW battery, making the home almost off-grid.

All this sustainability is wrapped up in a stylish modern home, designed to meet the needs of today’s family.

Raw particle board lines a wall in the living area, and the ceiling is staggered to give the dining area an open feel.

Banks of stacker doors open onto the street-facing alfresco deck, which overlooks terraced lawn.

A second, small sitting area closes off with sliding doors, creating a quiet space or perhaps a guest bedroom.

Blue and white glass tiles add a splash of colour to the spacious and uber-functional kitchen, which has white cupboards and beautiful marri benchtops.

There’s a heap of cupboards, a double pantry and a Bosch induction stove top, “which is super energy efficient,” the owner says.

Upstairs is another sitting area and two double bedrooms with built-in-robes.

The main bedroom is spacious, with a large en suite with natural slate and a marri vanity with double sinks.

Golden bamboo floors and ceiling fans give the bedrooms a Bali feel.

Aughton is a quiet street close to two primary schools, the train station, and cafes and shops.

by JENNY D’ANGER

5 Aughton Street, Bayswater
EOI from $789,000
Carlos Lehn 0416 206 736
Acton Mt Lawley 9272 2488