VA NIT Y FA R E
Shiny subway tiles form a striking
contrast against the rustic rammed-
earth wells in the smaller bathroom,
which features a custom-made
Tasmanian oak bench by Imatech
and Milan above-counter basin
from Harper’s Bathroom.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Made from a highly compacted combination of gravel, sand and clay, rammed earth
is an ancient building technique that’s energy-efficient, produces minimal waste and
offers a beautiful natural finish. For Andrew and Kinara, it ticked all the boxes from
an environmental perspective, but it can be labour intensive. “It’s not very straight-
forward,” says the home’s designer, Michael Shrapnel of Beachouse Architecture,
especially because walls now require insulation. Yet it’s hard to argue against the
stunning result – and it’s easy on the environment. “The beauty is you get the same
finish inside and out,” he says. “It’s low-maintenance and, being a natural material,
it breathes, so it’s great for the internal air quality.” Beachousearchitecture.com.au. Areal living69
HOMES