Perth scientist’s SIPs sustainable home the 'Rolls Royce' of housing

Geophysicist Nigel Smith and his wife Pingkan set out to build a sustainable house as their forever home in December 2020.

Their goal was to build a home that had high energy and water efficiency, as well as a few creature comforts such as quiet environment with easy temperature control.

"SIPs Industries owner, Rob Vis, was kind enough to show us around his renovated house,” Mr Smith said. “We walked into the traditional front house, and it was as noisy, cold and draughty as our original house. As soon as we walked into the SIPs extension where it was quiet and cool, we knew that this was the sort of house we wanted to live in."

"We started the build in April 2021, finished by June 2022 and moved in September that year. Compared with the double brick and concrete houses that were built nearby and started at the same time, our house went up much quicker."

Since moving into their Riverton home last September, the couple found that the final product feels like the 'Rolls Royce' of construction. The ease of achieving air tightness of 1.58 air changes per hour meant that the home’s insulation was stellar. They also noted a huge difference between their old house which was particularly prone to draughts.

An important benefit amid rising energy costs, it takes little time to heat or cool and once at a desired temperature, it stays like that for a long time. The airtight insulation also creates a quiet environment, creating a haven from the world outside.

"We've lived in the house for almost six months now and it has exceeded our expectations, and we will be extremely pleased to spend the rest of our lives in it," Mr Smith said.

For more information on SIPs Industries, visit www.sipsindustries.com.au or call 08 9494 2211.