Five years ago the Forever Project director purchased a four bedroom, two bathroom home in Hamilton Hill, setting off on a journey to transform the 1950s abode into what it is today.
Out went things including the lawn and airconditioner and in came dense vegetation, shade cloth, solar pergolas, and double glazed glass to keep the home cool in summer.
In winter the plants or shade is moved to allow sunlight to heat the home.
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READ NOWAnd with solar technology, the local garden guru says he has not had to pay a power bill in four years.
Also included in his constantly evolving home is a 5000 litre rainwater tank, gardens growing a host of vegetables and fruit, and a cubby house he calls the real play station.
On Sunday Ferreira will again open his home to the public to explain further how he operates sustainably, with tours covering food production, waterwise plants and how to use plants for natural heating and cooling.
“We’re always trying to think of new ways to get the message across that it’s not that hard to be sustainable,” he said.
“You can spend heaps, or you can spend nothing.”
n The Ferreiras’ house at 11 Mortlock Street, Hamilton Hill, will be open this Sunday for viewing. Cost is a gold-coin donation and registrations are essential.