Tone's courtyard house design is based on a C-shaped layout, creating open-plan living that has a natural
flow, out through the large north-facing sliding-glass doors to the private courtyard gardens. And since
all lots have a northern orientation, they all have excellent passive solar performance.
Click on images to enlarge (Design examples only)
Rainwater harvested from the house roofs will be stored in underground cisterns. The thermal mass of
this water will be used to increase the houses' passive solar performance, keeping them cool in summer
and warm in winter.
This climate responsive design combined with energy efficient fittings and appliances will mean that
without any reduction in comfort or convenience, power consumption will be around a fifth that of the
average Australian home.
Click on images to enlarge (Design examples only)
Healthy Homes & Buildings
The principle criteria in the choice of the building materials to be used in Rivendell have been the
health of the residents and the health of the planet.
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Non-toxic paints and finishes will be used throughout.
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A cradle to grave approach has been used to assess the environmental impact of building materials. This
life-cycle assessment considers the impact of producing the material from the initial extraction of
raw materials to its eventual disposal.
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In the construction of Rivendell no timber taken from old growth forests will be used, nor any imported
tropical rainforest timber.
Housing Options
In order to encourage a high degree of social diversity, Rivendell offers a wide variety of housing:
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Homes
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Residences with home offices, shop-fronts & workshops
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Apartments
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Rental Accommodation
Business Premises
Prospective businesses can consult with Rivendell's design team to have their premises purpose designed
and built to fit their needs, while meeting Rivendell's very high aesthetic and environmental performance
standards.
Reduced consumption means
savings for both the residents and the environment.
