This small off grid house located in a flame zone, designed by Anderson Architecture, is a stunning demonstration of sustainable, resilient design nestled within the bushland of Sydney’s Blue Mountains. With a modest footprint of just 94 square metres, this small yet highly efficient cabin proves that you don’t need to compromise on comfort, style, or sustainability when working with limited space. Perfectly integrated into its natural surroundings, this home stands as an exemplary model for eco-conscious living in one of the most challenging environments.
Located in an area of high bushfire risk, the property holds the BAL-FZ (Bushfire Attack Level – Flame Zone) rating — the most severe bushfire risk classification in Australia. Given the extreme conditions, the off grid house was designed with safety and sustainability in mind. The home’s design prioritises bushfire resistance while also minimising its environmental footprint. The construction materials used are not only durable but also carbon-efficient, contributing to the home’s net-zero carbon emissions.
One of the most striking features of the house is its ability to function independently of the grid. The cabin operates on solar power, collected from solar panels strategically placed on the roof. With this setup, the home is entirely self-sufficient, generating its own electricity and harnessing the sun’s energy for daily needs. In addition to solar power, the home also captures rainwater from the roof, providing all the water required for the home’s daily functions, while the worm farm wastewater treatment system effectively manages sewage in an eco-friendly manner.
The design layout consists of two steeply pitched boxes with skillion roofs, strategically placed in opposing directions to optimise performance. One box is designed to capture solar heat during the day, maximising natural warmth in the colder months. The second box has been carefully oriented to provide a perfect roof surface for solar panels, which generate electricity to power the home. This dual design maximises energy efficiency, reducing the need for external power sources while ensuring year-round comfort.
Inside, the living area reflects the beauty of the surrounding Blue Mountains landscape. Large glass doors open up the living space to the outdoors, blending the two seamlessly and allowing the natural beauty of the area to enter the home. The interior design incorporates materials that reflect the natural features of the region, such as stone and timber, while carefully selected windows bring in abundant natural light and provide beautiful, panoramic views of the bushland.
The design also incorporates passive solar techniques, which allow the home to harness natural energy and regulate temperature without relying on energy-intensive mechanical systems. The cabin’s positioning and orientation take full advantage of the sun’s path throughout the year, ensuring that the home remains warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Large windows positioned for optimal cross-ventilation allow natural airflow to cool the home, significantly reducing the need for air conditioning.
Rainwater harvesting is another integral feature of the home. With a large roof area dedicated to capturing rainwater, the home’s water needs are fully met by what is collected from the surrounding environment. This system not only conserves precious water resources but also reduces reliance on external water infrastructure, further enhancing the home’s self-sufficiency.
In line with its commitment to sustainable building practices, this small off grid house offsets all carbon emissions produced during construction by purchasing certified carbon credits. This ensures that the home’s impact on the environment is minimal, helping it achieve a net-zero carbon footprint from the very start.
This off-grid home is not just about resilience and efficiency — it’s a space designed to foster a deep connection to nature. The home is a safe haven in one of the most bushfire-prone areas of Australia, offering a peaceful escape from the harsh conditions of the outdoors. It’s a retreat that not only protects its inhabitants from extreme weather but also exemplifies how to live harmoniously with the environment.
With its flame zone resilience, low-carbon construction, and innovative sustainable design, this home shows that you can have the best of both worlds: an eco-friendly, self-sufficient home that blends beautifully into the landscap and an exceptional model of how homes can be both functional, beautiful, and responsible in our rapidly changing world.
The home shows that sustainable design doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or style. With a small footprint, minimal environmental impact, and flame zone protection, this Blue Mountains cabin is a true sanctuary — a perfect example of how intelligent, eco-conscious design can offer refuge, both from bushfire danger and from the demands of modern life. It’s not just a home; it’s a place where you can escape, recharge, and be part of nature while still being sustainable, safe, and self-sufficient.
