John Boland and Chris Bryant have transformed their home in inner-city Adelaide, Australia, turning it from just another structure surrounded by concrete to a lush, verdant oasis. Their innovative approach of cooling the home naturally has garnered attention, showing it is possible to live comfortably without relying on air conditioning.
The couple's efforts began over 30 years ago when they decided to remove concrete and plant fruit trees, fundamentally shifting how they live and utilize their space. Now, those trees not only offer food but also provide the necessary shade during the scorching South Australian summers.
Boland, who has dedicated much of his life to exploring sustainability, refers to their home as living practically “in the jungle.” This unique lifestyle has allowed them to enjoy nature's melodic birdsong instead of the mechanical hum of air conditioning.
Living on a traditional quarter-acre block, Boland and Bryant utilize the natural environment for comfort and energy efficiency. Over their time there, they have gained valuable experience, honing sustainability techniques to maximize both ventilation and energy savings.
According to Boland, deciduous trees on the western side of their house provide ample shade during the summer months and allow the winter sun to warm their home. This dual functionality also helps block out harsh breezes, enhancing their home's comfort throughout the year.
“We basically live in the jungle,” Boland emphasizes, highlighting how their garden has become not only beautiful but integral to their home’s comfort. Instead of air conditioning, they enjoy dining outdoors surrounded by thriving plants and the natural beauty of their city garden.
The path to creating their sustainable haven was gradual and strategic. The couple made it their mission to incorporate environmentally-friendly practices slowly but surely, allowing them to find the methods most efficient for their lifestyle.
When they encountered issues like asbestos and termite damage, they used the opportunity to improve their home's insulation, ensuring each renovation worked toward sustainability. Boland’s expertise as someone who studied heat flows also proved invaluable as he redesigned the interior to optimize natural airflow.
Through their careful adjustments, they have turned their home more energy-efficient and comfortable. For example, they installed mesh security screens to facilitate breezes, permitting fresh air to flow freely through their living space.
During hot months, rather than resorting to air conditioning, the couple enjoys the evening's gentle air, taking walks around their neighborhood and opening their home to cooler outdoor temperatures. Meanwhile, many neighbors are left to the noise of their air conditioning systems, unaware of the potential benefits of utilizing natural methods to maintain comfort.
Back in March 2000, the couple embraced solar power, implementing panels to gradually reduce their energy usage. They began with smaller systems to allow them to monitor their consumption and only expanded when it was necessary.
“Until we need it, we don’t do it,” Boland explains of their cautious approach. By adopting this incremental method, they have successfully produced more energy than they require, making significant strides toward sustainability.
They also utilize rainwater collected from their roof for garden irrigation, ensuring their plants remain lush without significant municipal dependence. Wildlife has become part of their ecosystem; various birds and even reptiles like blue tongue lizards are drawn to their thriving garden.
The abundance of fruits and nuts from their homegrown produce means they can dramatically cut down their contributions to local landfills. The couple details their composting efforts, which minimize waste and help enrich their garden's soil.
“We only put out our rubbish bin for collection once a month,” Bryant says, showcasing their commitment to reducing waste. They live by principles of mindful consumption, often planning meals centered around the seasonal fruits available from their garden.
Taking it beyond just their house, Boland and Bryant have changed their transportation habits too. Having been without a car for over ten years, they prefer walking or using public transport whenever possible, significantly lowering their carbon footprint.
Reflecting on past mistakes, Boland acknowledges some trees were initially unsuitable for their climate and certain renovations did not pan out as expected. Yet, he views those missteps as learning experiences, leading to smarter choices with each new addition or adjustment.
With his background as both a mathematician and sustainability enthusiast, Boland embraces the challenge of optimizing not just energy use but their entire lifestyle. “It’s honestly just wonderful fun, and satisfying,” he remarks about their transformation.
Now, he dedicates time to educating others about sustainable living practices. Through public presentations, Boland shares simple insights like maintaining plants for natural cooling and providing tips on enhancing home ventilation during summer heat.
“The main goal is increasing comfort, not just focusing on saving energy,” he says, encouraging others to enjoy the process. The couple invites anyone interested to have fun and experiment with sustainable methods, showcasing the ease with which natural living can be integrated.
Boland and Bryant’s story highlights how adopting sustainable practices can be both enjoyable and fulfilling within urban living. By nurturing their home and embracing the local ecosystem, they have created not just shelter, but also serenity and bounty amid city life.
