You can stay in world’s first aircrete dome

Elysian Falls is a unique and peaceful dwelling tucked away in Montville.

Cath brought all of her artistic talent to the build, including beautiful stained glass windows. 

Three years, six thousand handmade bricks, and three pairs of boots later, 50 year old Montville artist Cath Wild, has completed the construction of the world’s first Council-approved aircrete dome at beautiful Elysian Falls.

“At 90sqm, it is the biggest sculpture I have ever done,” she said. “Now that it is done, I am pretty tired, I think it was pure stubbornness that kept me going!”

Cath is the daughter of George and Aldy Johnston of Secrets on the Lake and she attributes her parent’s example of living their lives to the beat of their own drum as her inspiration for doing the same.

“We grew up in a grain silo house, and then my parents built a hexagonal house, so I feel as though I have always lived ‘in the round’,” she said.

Cath was compelled to use aircrete to construct her dome because of its range of unique properties.

“Aircrete domes are super low cost to build and very DIY friendly,” she explained.

“They are fireproof, cyclone proof, and termite proof, and have incredible sound insulation and thermal insulation.

“All of these attributes make it perfect for our harsh Aussie climate.”

Aircrete bricks are made using a precise foamy mixture of air bubbles and cement.

“I achieved about 150-200 bricks from a day’s aircrete brick pour, and this build required 6,000 bricks,” said Cath.

“The mixture is poured into moulds and left to set, after which they are cut to size and stacked to cure before using to build with.”

Cath brought all of her artistic talent to the build, with beautiful stained glass window and hand carved cedar details inside the dome. She has created a unique and peaceful dwelling that is fittingly tucked away in the idyllic green surrounds of Montville.

“All of the small details are so important and I have brought my love of creating to every centimetre of it,” she said.

Understandably, the build has attracted a lot of attention and Cath has won a competition hosted by Airbnb called the OMG (Oh My God) Fund.

“This was quite a big deal, because while 100 people around the world earned the award, said Cath. “The idea is to showcase the most original, sustainable and feasible Airbnb accommodation, that offers guests a totally original experience.

“Elysian Falls is available to those wanting to experience a livable work of art. It is perfect for couples, a group of friends, or a small family getaway.”

• To find out how to book a stay at Elysian Falls, contact Cath Wild at info@elysianfalls.com.au or visit www.elysianfalls.com.au.