A Family By Design by Olivia Rytwinski

Author:Olivia Rytwinski [Rytwinski, Olivia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: PublishNation
Published: 2017-12-11T22:00:00+00:00

Late the next morning we drove in convoy to Benn Cady. The noontime sun had almost broken through the light covering of cloud, and as we drove up the gravelled track to our newly named home, Wolfstone House, I felt excited to see it again and thrilled to show it off to our families.

Now that it neared completion its modern beauty merged effortlessly with the hillside setting. The main frame rose to a great arched, seeded roof which had already nurtured a variety of grasses and native wildflowers. Large glass panels to the front and both sides ensured flawless views of the stunning panoramas from all aspects. The remainder of the exterior had been cladded with Red Cedar, all except for one full height section of wall for which we’d used local stone. The impressive wind turbine stood proudly to the far west side and the solar panels had been strategically arranged on the south-facing section of the roof.

In the design and construction of our home we’d bought in materials that enhanced and conserved the environment, it redistributed rather than depleted resources, and we felt happier with each step of the building process. We’d given equal care to the interior, with a fresh air ventilation system, natural insulation that used sheep’s wool, water-based paints and water saving showers. We bought second-hand furniture or items made from recycled materials. We had considered every last detail to ensure that it fit in with our surroundings and the environment.

“Goodness Katriina, I had no idea that you were building such an enormous house. It’s magnificent.” Mum’s face lit up with surprise.

“Will you need any mains electricity or can you rely on the energy the house generates?” Dad asked Max.

My parents asked knowledgeable questions about its energy sources and eco features, almost as though they’d researched the topic, which I suspected they had. Of course, they knew it was something we were passionate about, but I felt touched by their interest and newfound knowledge. Iona and Mary took photographs and made enthusiastic sounds as they suggested ideas for setting out furniture and fittings.

“You see, we thought that by having the living areas upstairs and large windows, we’d be able to take advantage of the views in all their glory,” said Max.

I heard the way his voice lifted, its cadence more pronounced, just how proud he was as he showed his mum around our home, his creation. Iona, in turn, chatted in equally fervent tones.

She linked arms with Max and leaned into him. “Goodness Max, your business is doing well. I’m proud of you and your daddy will be too when I tell him all about it. I honestly thought you were building more of a two up two down.” She ran her hand along some wooden panelling. “Plenty of room for little ones.” She exchanged a look with her sister. “Daddy was so upset he couldn’t come, but they wouldn’t even let him out for a day. So unfair to miss all of this.” She stood back and took a photo of Max at the bottom of the staircase.

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