In the quiet hills of Flaxton, a sculptor has turned a personal dream into a one-of-a-kind reality, hand-building what’s believed to be the first council-approved aircrete dome home in Australia.
Building Dreams In The Hinterland
Cath Wild, an artist in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, built her 90-square-metre home in Flaxton using aircrete, a light, foamy mix of cement, water and soap. Over several years, she handcrafted 6,000 bricks on the rural block she shares with her partner.
What started as curiosity about sustainable building grew into a full project. Drawing on her sculpting background, Wild shaped curved domes instead of square rooms.
Overcoming Red Tape
Before building began, Wild faced her biggest hurdle, getting council approval. With aircrete unfamiliar to authorities, she was rejected by engineers multiple times before finally finding support on her twentieth try.
Wild spent about $26,000 on approvals, navigating rules not built for alternative homes. By documenting her work and testing aircrete’s strength, she met all safety standards.
From Art To Architecture
Calling the home her largest artwork, Wild used her sculptor’s eye to shape the domes into a liveable space with two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, study and lounge. Skylights and curved windows bring in soft natural light.
Though designed for personal use, Wild said her hope was to demonstrate what’s possible when art, design and environmental thinking come together. Her journey has since inspired others across the country to consider similar approaches. She has shared her plans and techniques with other builders and said several nearby projects have already received council approval.
A Growing Community Of Builders
What started as a solo project in a quiet Flaxton clearing is now influencing a wider movement. Wild continues to support others who are experimenting with aircrete, helping to build a network of DIY builders interested in low-impact, cost-effective housing.
Although she didn’t set out to make history, Wild’s project has gained attention for what it represents: a shift toward creative, community-driven approaches to living. Her house may be the first of its kind, but she says it won’t be the last.
Published 6-May-2025