Eco‑friendly family home in Palmoli, Italy to become self‑sufficient

Australian Catherine Birmingham and British carpenter Nathan Trevallion plan to return to their forest dwelling near Palmoli, Abruzzo, after their three children have been placed in a foster home. A new 66 m² house will be built beside the original rough‑cut cottage, designed by architect Maria Mascarucci, a specialist in sustainable construction.

The building will use wood frames, external hemp‑block insulation and rooftop photovoltaic panels, providing electricity and heating without utility bills. It will include a fireplace, a kitchen, two bedrooms, a living area, a bathroom, and a glass‑room greenhouse for the children to study and play. Construction is slated to start in September and finish within about six months, after which the family hopes to reunite under the same roof.

The project aims to demonstrate minimal environmental impact while complying with local regulations, offering a model of autonomous, low‑tech housing in a rural Italian setting.