Soon after launching the prefabricated modular e-BODE concept in 2004, Cradle Design was invited to participate in the Houses of the Future exhibition, a major Sydney event for the Year of the Built Environment 2004. A fabulous site was secured and eager industry sponsors contributed to the construction of six pavilions demonstrating innovative and environmentally-conscious design, building techniques and materials. Over 120,000 people visited the exhibition, which later moved to the Sydney Olympic Park.

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The first e-BODE to be built by prefabrication specialists, Mod-Eco, was installed on the NSW South Coast at the end of 2007. The house was constructed off-site, within the controlled environment of a factory. The dimensions and layout were calculated to reduce material waste and maximise efficiencies. The factory environment allowed for centralised labour, waste minimisation and a controlled environment where delays due to incremental weather were eradicated. The home design had to provide a structure that could be craned on and off a truck as well as be transported on the back of a low-loader to the site.

This sustainable residential design consists of two modules, separated by a large deck. The larger module contains the living area, kitchen, one bathroom and a bedroom. The smaller module has a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and also includes a fold-up bed, allowing the artist to use the space as a painting studio. The house nestles amongst tall spotted gums, sitting above the sloping site on simple pier foundations.

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Wherever possible, the e-BODE  residential exterior design used recyclable and reusable materials. The structure, roof and wall cladding were constructed of steel which is inherently recyclable, strong, long lasting, low-maintenance and pre-fabricated. The folding decks to each side of the modules were finished with mod-wood a composite timber decking which was manufactured using recycled plastic and timber saw dust. The sustainable residential design also utilised large rain water tanks for general use in and around the dwelling, as well as an on-site enviro-cycle grey and black water treatment system which was installed for the treatment and breakdown of waste.

​Photography: Propelled Pictures