Real Living Australia - February 2018

THE COURTYARD

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CHECK COUNCIL RULES BEFORE

PUTTING IN A WATER TANK

There are certain regulations and

restrictions that apply if you’re planning

on using rain water. You may also need

to submit a building or development

application so it’s advisable to seek

guidance from your local council. You

also need to make sure you will have

enough water for your needs. “Because

the property is 100 per cent reliant on

rainwater, it’s always exciting when it

rains, and you know you’re topping up

your own supply for drinking, washing

and bathing,” Karl says.

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OFF-GRID LIVING CAN TAKE

UP A LOT OF SPACE

A solar photovoltaic electricity-

conversion system was a necessity

out in this remote location, and Karl

and Lynette put careful thought into

how they would incorporate the

equipment within the space without

it becoming an eyesore. In the end,

the sizeable panels, control systems

and batteries were placed in a clearing

behind the property. “The batteries

work beautifully, and it’s surprising

how much power they can generate,

even on a cloudy day,” Lynette says.

Step outside

A minimally landscaped

courtyard separates the

living areas from the private

bedroom space, and acts as

a suntrap in winter. Recessed

cabinetry in the living space

houses the owners’ large

collection of records.

@reallivingmag