Upside Down Akubra House – Set on a 314-hectare cattle station in regional NSW, the Upside Down Akubra House is a robust, off-grid home inspired by the wide brim of its iconic namesake. The structure’s oversized roof provides generous shading, bushfire protection, and maximised rainwater collection — perfectly suited to its remote, drought-prone setting.
Every detail of this house was designed for self-sufficiency, including a 12kW solar system with 74kWh of battery storage, 120,000L rainwater tank, greywater recycling, and a fully electric hydronic heating and cooling system. The home uses exposed insulated concrete walls and thermal mass floors to regulate indoor temperatures, with a 94% efficient HRV system ensuring fresh air year-round. Built with recycled timber, thermally efficient windows, and local trades, this project is a standout example of sustainable performance, resource-conscious design, and regional craftsmanship—all under a roof that makes a statement.
An iconic off-grid farmhouse designed for drought resilience, with a 12kW solar system, 120kL rainwater tank, HRV ventilation, and oversized roof for shade and water harvesting.
(High performance, off-grid)
Awards
- Winner – 2020 HIA Australian GreenSmart Custom Built
- Winner - 2020 HIA Northern NSW GreenSmart Sustainable home
- Winner – 2020 MBA NSW Energy Efficiency – Housing ($800k-$2m)
- Commendation - Institute of Architects NSW Awards | Residential Architecture – Houses New (ASA)
- Commendation - Institute of Architects NSW Awards | COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture (ASA)
- Habitus House of the Year | House of the Year 2020 (ASA)
- Winner - 2020 Sustainability Awards | Single Dwelling (New) (ASA)
- Honorable Mention - INDE Awards | The Living Space (ASA)
