Location   Monaghan Farm, South Africa

Surface area   4,025 square feet

Photographs   © Karl Rogers

	Landscape integration   Wind protection
	Rainwater collection and use
	Photovoltaic solar energy   High insulation
	Prefabricated materials   Sustainable wood
	Natural daylight

The aim of this collaborative project was to build an energy-efficient home in Monaghan Farm, which will act as a case study to demonstrate that housing in South Africa can be built successfully using predominantly energy-efficient materials while retaining the qualities of permanence and longevity that are associated with traditional houses.

The challenge of the project is to explore the process of designing and building housing that adheres to the concept of energy efficiency every step of the way. Thus, a simple layout is sought, while aiming to ensure the efficient use of resources both during the construction process and during the entire life cycle of the building. Furthermore, to maintain quality within the home, the project takes into account key factors such as comfort and familiarity as well as social status and aspiration, which are essential in this sector of the residential market.

The evolution of the project was documented in detail from the concept design phase until its full completion. All this information is available for carrying out a detailed case study of the project and evaluating its thermal performance.

Section A-A

East elevation

North elevation

South elevation

Floor plan

  1.  Foyer

  2.  Living room

  3.  Dining room

  4.  Kitchen

  5.  Scullery

  6.  Storeroom

  7.  Bathroom

  8.  Dressing room

  9.  Bedrooms

10.  Veranda

11.  Staff room

12.  Yard

13.  Garage

14.  Driveway

15.  Pool

 The sloped roof can collect up to 5,300 gallons of rainwater. The height and orientation selected were also adapted to the solar panel installation requirements.

 The multilayered walls made by Saint-Gobain offer thermal and acoustic insulation and greater fire resistance than traditional bricks and mortar, while also improving air quality.

Detailed wall section

 In order to facilitate the installation and allow for future changes, all electrical services are aligned and divided into areas throughout the center of the home’s living room.

Electrical / water supply plan

  1.  Veranda

  2.  Storage area

  3.  Scullery

  4.  Bathroom

  5.  Foyer

  6.  Staff room