Sustainable
Housing
Across the world, people are turning to
more eco-friendly housing solutions.
Ranging from earth-friendly cob homes to
innovative passive solar designs, these homes
are reshaping the way Australians live and
interact with their environment.
Sustainable
Housing
People across Australia are embracing
alternative sustainable housing options for
many reasons.
Why do you think this is?
• environmental consciousness and concern for the planet's
future
• reduction of carbon footprint and resource depletion
• harmonious living with nature, using natural materials
• long-term cost savings through reduced energy bills
• cultural shift towards simpler, more mindful living
Let’s look at what kinds of alternative sustainable housing people are
building in Australia now.
Straw Bale
Homes
Constructed using bales of straw as
insulation within timber or steel
frames, straw bale homes offer
excellent thermal performance, natural
insulation and breathability. These
homes are energy-efficient, fire-
resistant and often feature earthen
plasters or natural finishes.
States like Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia have active
straw bale building communities and projects.
Earthships
Earthships are passive solar homes made
from recycled materials, such as tires,
bottles and cans, encased in rammed
earth or adobe walls.
These off-grid dwellings are designed to be self-
sufficient, with features like rainwater harvesting,
solar panels and greenhouse spaces for food
production.
Cob Houses
(Mud Brick Houses)
Cob houses are built from a mixture of
clay-rich soil, sand and straw. They are
sculpted by hand into thick, load-bearing
walls.
These natural buildings offer thermal mass,
sculptural design opportunities and low
environmental impact. Cob homes are often finished
with natural plasters and earthen floors.
Tiny
Houses
Tiny houses are compact dwellings
typically ranging from 9.5sqm to 37sqm in
size. They are designed to maximise space
efficiency and minimise environmental
footprint.
These minimalist homes promote
simple living, affordability and
mobility, often featuring off-grid
utilities and clever storage solutions.
The tiny house movement has gained momentum in Australia in recent
years, with individuals and communities embracing the concept of
downsized, minimalist living. Tiny house villages can be found across
Australia.
Yurts and
Geodesic Domes
Yurts and geodesic domes are alternative
shelter designs inspired by traditional
and modern nomadic cultures.
These portable, lightweight structures
offer versatility, affordability and
efficient use of materials, with options
for off-grid living and renewable
energy integration.
These alternative homes can be found in retreat centres and eco-resorts
in regions like Tasmania, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Shipping
Container Homes
Shipping container homes are
constructed by repurposing
decommissioned shipping containers,
typically made of steel. These homes
offer durability, affordability and
versatility, using recycled materials in
their construction.
With proper insulation and design, shipping
container homes can be energy-efficient and
aesthetically pleasing. They represent an innovative
approach to housing and blending modern design
with eco-friendly principles.
