Through a combination of high levels of insulation and building seal, plus natural ventilation, the Passive House (Passivhaus) approach to design and construction delivers energy efficient buildings that feel great to use, as well as life-long low operating costs. Creating a high-performance envelope means that the whole fabric of the building is contributing to energy use reduction. This approach is applicable to new-build and adaptation projects in all sectors, including the residential, education, civic, arts and commercial sectors.

Our design process combines an understanding of the technical, financial and buildability considerations of implementing Passive House techniques, with experience and lateral thinking in meeting challenges.

For the retrofit of existing buildings — including both recent and heritage buildings — the applicable Passive House standard is called EnerPHit, and in achieving its implementation we are industry leaders in Australia in sustainability innovation. Passive House or EnerPHit accords with existing sustainability tools, and often means a building can exceed the highest energy ratings they employ.