Wilderness Building Co is a residential and commercial building practice with a holistic approach centred on our belief in sustainability as praxis. This principle not only inspires a mindful and adaptive use of materials, it facilitates a truly collaborative process that values the knowledge of every person involved in construction - from the owners of a property, to the architects, carpenters, contractors and labourers working on it.
After observing the cultural dynamics and environmental problems that beset the construction industry, we formed Wilderness Building Co. to explore what a modern, progressive and environmentally conscious building company could be.
WHAT WE DO
We engage in projects knowing that every decision is an opportunity to respect the land we build upon and the people, animals and plants that have always called it home. We are avid recyclers, transforming materials others might call waste into beautiful and unique features of our buildings. Our commitment to sustainability inspired us to attain certification from the Passivhaus Institut in Germany and membership with the Australian Passive House Association. All Passive Houses are built to specific principles - utilising the sun; an airtight envelope; proper insulation; high performance windows; mechanical ventilation and no thermal bridges - that ensure a building remains warm in the colder months and cool in the warmer months. While all of our projects are not certified Passive Houses, we focus on these principles in all Wilderness buildings to ensure they are comfortable, sustainable and energy efficient.
HOW WE DO IT
Being a process-driven company we are focused on how we build a structure, including how we relate to everyone involved. We feel that developing trust is the most important aspect of any construction process, as it creates the possibility for honest and direct communication, which in our experience supports an efficient and enjoyable build.
It is with this in mind that we do not engage with traditional tender processes, preferring to meet with potential partners to feel if we are the right fit for their project. This leads to our involvement in a project from conception to completion to provide accurate costing; share our expertise where it’s needed; and encourage clients and architects to make sustainable choices. We call this ECE, or Early Contractor Engagement.
We believe the antiquated system of tendering doesn’t facilitate a process that unifies the design and construction of a building, and by offering our expertise from the beginning of a project, we are able to support all aspects of a build, ensuring every decision is cost effective and environmentally conscious. Our approach shifts from project to project to respect the unique qualities of those involved and the specific requirements of each building process.
We are a residential and commercial building practice that cares for the environment through sustainable processes and the conscious use of materials.
We are certified by the Passivhaus Institut and a member of the Australian Passive House Association.
WBC would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which it works, The Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation. It pays respects to Elders past, present and emerging and stresses the importance of including our First Nations People in the move to a more sustainable life for all.
admin@wildernessbuilding.com
13 Ovens Street
Brunswick VIC 3085
