Snakes and charred logs are behind the design of this $1.8m tube house

On the market with a price guide of $1.8 million to $1.98 million, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom property at 33 Gleghorn Road in Kallista, is in the shape of a tubular ellipse for one specific reason.

Vendor Allan Murray, who purchased the site in October 2011 with partner Ann, was inspired by a charred fallen log.

“We have a passion for improving building knowledge that will reduce our impact on our environment,” Murray reveals. “We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world so it would be irresponsible to abuse the tranquil surroundings.”

Known for their sustainable homes, Maxa Design were briefed to “design a soft, round and warm residence”, as stated on their website. The result is an energy-efficient home that employs Passivhaus standards.

This is a European certification scheme where homes undergo mandatory air-tightness testing. Homes are said to be thermally efficient with smaller variations in temperature throughout the year and produce energy savings of up to 90 per cent.

The Log House is situated on 1.5 acres of lush bushland in Kallista, a small village in the Dandenong Ranges between Belgrave and Olinda.

Concrete rail sleeper retaining walls, corrugated iron and triple-glazed windows form part of the unique build.

Murray reveals the project took about four years to complete and there were a few challenges along the way.

“We had a few issues with council over removing some trees as the site was on the list for a wildlife corridor,” he explains.

Murray, who is an engineer, reveals there were also challenges to do with the curved structure requiring curved beams.

“I was reminded of a statement by my design lecturer that nature has solved complex design issues, so I found an image of a snake’s skeleton and showed it to the architect and structural engineer – the backbone with ribs frame.

“Teaching experienced contractors how to do things differently required good communication and work at an hourly rate.”

The effort has paid off with a unique design that is spacious and light-filled inside.

High ceilings, engineered oak floors and bold feature walls in earthy tones feature throughout the space.

There is a deck to kick back and relax, a private balcony off the master suite, a home office and garden studio.

Murray reveals that while it’s hard to let go of the home, they will relocate to Queensland to be with their children as they “may need their support” as they get older.

Jo Hirst and Corinne Sukroo of Bell Real Estate Olinda are handling the property campaign.