This five-bedroom, multi-generational home encompasses a spatially efficient layout and incorporates universal design with optimal ergonomics and functionality for all ages. The home is thoughtfully two-storey providing a more efficient form to maximise thermal efficiency meaning a smaller footprint on the site which also allows for a generous garden and outdoor living where children can play and fruit trees will grow.
The clients have previous experience living in a Bob Burnett Architecture Superhome and therefore fully appreciate the difference this makes to their health and wellbeing and the power bill. The home includes the key design ideas and construction methods and techniques which make it a Certified Superhome.
A fully insulated Slab with edge and total under-slab insulation complements the choice of super-energy-efficient in-slab hydronic underfloor heating ensuring the heat is supplied to the home and not needlessly lost. An Ecopanel Structurally Insulated Wall System makes up the walls of the external envelope. uPVC windows are installed in line with the insulation, eliminating thermal bridging and ensuring an airtight install. These are taped to the internal intello airtightness layer to ensure heat loss doesn’t occur through these junctions.
The clients have been bold enough to do something different, recognising the importance of creating a home that benefits and supports the health and wellbeing of the occupants through varying life stages.
HOME FEATURES
● Home Floor Area: 310m2, Section Size: 1000m2
● 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 2 Living Rooms
● Windows: NK Windows (Double & Triple Glazed Windows)
● Fully Insulated Slab with 50mm Edge and total under-slab insulation
● EcoPanel super insulated prefab external wall framing (R4.59)
● Airtight construction 0.68 ach/hr (air changes / hour)
● Ventilation, balanced heat recovery with humidity sensors & active cooling
● Dual Heat pump for Underfloor and Water Heating
● CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) Midfloor Panels
● Roof, 2 layers of insulation & Hybrid Warm Roof with PIR panels
● Renewable energy and storage via Solar PV and batteries
Caro Lane | PLANS
Caro Lane | IN PICTURES
This Multi-Generational Marvel represents a paradigm shift in multi-generational living. With a focus on spatial efficiency, sustainability, and innovative construction methods, this Superhome not only meets the diverse needs of its occupants but also contributes to their health and well-being throughout various life stages. The design serves as an inspiring example of how architectural ingenuity can enhance the quality of family life while promoting environmental responsibility. Healthy for people, healthy for the planet.
Before embarking on the construction of Caro Lane, clients Fiona and Trevor had already experienced the comfort of living in a Bob Burnett Architecture home. The unique dwelling, New Zealand’s pioneering 8-star Homestar home, was built back in 2011 at an affordable cost of just $300,000 - originally conceived as a spec project. Measuring 149m², it featured four bedrooms and an attached double garage. This project was the precursor to the first 10 star homes in Church Square.
Fiona and Trevor purchased the home off the plans when the foundation had just been laid, for a total of $415,000 (2011 price), which included the land. Upon settling in, their family was pleasantly surprised by the low operating expenses, totaling less than $600 for an entire year, despite opting to install only half of the initially recommended solar panels. Had the full 4kW solar system been installed as initially planned, their annual power bill would have been completely eliminated. This home served as a compelling testament to the feasibility of constructing an affordable and energy-efficient home.
As their family grew, and with the desire to have extended family live with them, Fiona and Trevor found themselves in need of a more spacious dwelling. Drawing from their positive experience in their previous home, especially the health benefits of living in an efficient and environmentally friendly space, they naturally turned to Bob Burnett Architecture once again to design their next residence at Caro Lane.
The choice of construction materials and techniques plays a pivotal role in the home’s sustainability and energy efficiency. The fully insulated slab, combined with super-energy-efficient in-slab hydronic underfloor heating, ensures optimal heat retention. The Ecopanel wall system, comprising various layers for insulation, airtightness, and cavity battens, offers superior performance while reducing heat loss through the building envelope.
To meet recession plane and height limit constraints, a CLT midfloor was chosen. This innovative approach utilises 166mm thick CLT panels, providing a shallower midfloor depth compared to traditional floor joists. Below these panels, a 90mm services cavity accommodates plumbing services and whole-house ventilation ducts. The combination of prefab Ecopanel and CLT panels accelerated construction, with walls and midfloor completed in just three days.
NK uPVC windows were installed in alignment with the insulation, eliminating thermal bridging and ensuring an airtight seal. These windows were carefully integrated with the internal intello air tightness layer to prevent heat loss through junctions.
