The perfect build: Going off grid in comfort
When Bob and Sue Hart decided to build an off-grid home in Tabulam in northern NSW, they discovered Paal by pure chance.
“Sue and I were taking our Winnebago to Emu Plains, and we went past Paal’s Sydney office and showroom,” said Bob. “We hadn’t heard of Paal but thought we’d take a look.”
The couple found exactly what they wanted. “We looked at the plans and the Stanthorpe design stood out,” said Bob.
Sue and Bob were living at Marks Point in Lake Macquarie, but when the pastor from their church retired and moved to Tabulam, they decided to do the same.
The couple met with Michael Christie who helped make modifications, such as changing the orientation of the home, enclosing the study and adding glass doors to the loungeroom and hallway. “Michael was so good to deal with,” said Sue.
Bob and Sue engaged Ray Collier, a builder with vast experience in creating Paal homes. And after initial council delays, the work began. “It all went smoothly once the build started,” said Sue. “It was terrific.”
The couple remained in Marks Point, with Bob travelling to Tabulam one week in every three to keep in touch with how the build was progressing.
“Ray was very professional,” said Bob. “Easy to get along with, and he’d always check with us to see if things were what we wanted.”
The four-bedroom-layout provided plenty of space to host guests as well as the couple’s adult daughter who lives with them. “We turned the rumpus room into a library, and she has that, her bedroom and the bathroom to herself,” said Bob.
Another advantage was the insulation. “We’re off-grid so insulation was important,” said Bob. “It has really served us well.”
Overall, the family couldn’t be happier. “My wife and daughter were initially sceptical about moving to Tabulam as it was in the bush and off-grid,” said Bob. “However, when they settled in, they were very happy with everything.”
“We really love the house and it’s extremely comfortable,” said Sue. “Exactly what we wanted – a modern take on a colonial design.
“Bob often watches the sunrise from his study window in the morning. In the evening, we all enjoy sitting under the alfresco watching a golden sunset and the sheep being led down to the lower paddock.”
“Sue and I highly recommend Paal,” said Bob. “We found the quality and design of our Stanthorpe home to be outstanding.”
