Booyong, crafted by The Sociable Weaver, stands as a beacon of sustainable living on the land of the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation. With a 7.3-star efficiency rating, this home is a symphony of design and nature.

Upon entering, a private courtyard invites residents and guests to pause, connect with nature, and leave the outside world behind. The home’s layout is a dance of interconnected spaces and courtyards, each capturing northern light to infuse tranquillity and warmth. Nature guides the flow, with the main circulation weaving around a central courtyard, bringing the outdoors into the heart of the home.

Nestled in an urban residential context, the dwelling ensures privacy and protection with a protective brick and timber facade. The use of recycled bricks and charred timber cladding adds a unique touch, setting it apart from its neighbours while harmonising with the surroundings.

Sustainability is at the core of Booyong’s design. It harnesses passive solar heating, cross-ventilation, and thermal mass insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature. Recycled materials, sustainable timber, and low VOC paint contribute to its eco-friendly credentials. Rainwater harvesting, water-efficient fixtures, and a solar PV array make it self-sufficient and eco-conscious.

Photography by Marnie Hawson

Dissections:
Furniture: Johnston Design, King Furniture, Vorsen, Bevmarks Lighting: Edison Lights, Illume Skylights, Buster + Punch, Fans – Aeratron and Fanco Finishes: Shou Sugi Ban Cladding – Eco Timber Group, Cladding – Colorbond, Double glazed windows: Baseline Windows and Doors, Tiento Tiles, G-Lux Tiles, Laminex, Stainless Steel: Leongatha Kitchens and Bathrooms, Timber Veneer – Timber Wood Panels Fittings & Fixtures: Tapware: Faucet Strommen, Brodware, ABI Interiors, Wood Melbourne, Partaps. Heated towel rails: Thermogroup. Throne smart toilet & Caroma toilet. Vanity – ARCT, Rangehood Quasair, Solar G-Store, grate drains Aquabocci, Flyscreens Clearshield