Passivhaus design is a groundbreaking transformation for the design world and a breath of fresh air for building construction. The aim of this design is to maximize the comfort of the user while using very low amounts of energy. Originally started in Germany, this design pathway aims to reduce the energy used in a building by using tools and methods such as insulation, airtightness, high-performance doors and windows, and mechanical ventilation systems that provide heat gain. Incorporating such disciplines into the design and construction of buildings can lead to large-scale reductions in energy use while reducing the impact on the environment and the well-being of users.
The world of design evolves each day due to the new technology. The goal is to make buildings that are designed more be environmentally friendly and more energy efficient. One of the sustainable building approaches gained momentum worldwide: Passivhaus. In this piece, we will delve into what makes Passivhaus unique to many other sustainable building approaches and why it’s relevant to both architects and those just interested in sustainable design. To simply explain, its aim is to create buildings that consume less energy and still maintain the optimal comfort required for its users. But what does that actually mean, and how does it work?
Passivhaus design is a groundbreaking transformation for the design world and a breath of fresh air for building construction. The aim of this design is to maximize the comfort of the user while using very low amounts of energy. Originally started in Germany, this design pathway aims to reduce the energy used in a building by using tools and methods such as insulation, airtightness, high-performance doors and windows, and mechanical ventilation systems that provide heat gain. Incorporating such disciplines into the design and construction of buildings can lead to large-scale reductions in energy use while reducing the impact on the environment and the well-being of users.
In a Passivhaus building, the walls and windows are heavily insulated so that the heat can stay indoors during the winter, and likewise, for the summer, the heat is preferred to be kept outside. With the correct insulation, interiors can be kept at a temperature that meets the needs of occupants without the need for any other mechanical system. Another key feature of Passivhaus is its ventilation system with heat recovery. Instead of using energy-intensive air conditioning, Passivhaus buildings have a smart system that brings in fresh air while expelling stale air. The clever part? Before the outgoing air leaves, it transfers its heat to the incoming air, minimizing heat loss and maximizing energy efficiency.
Passivhaus is more than just technical remedies of architects’ design problems; It is also a holistic approach that considers the building’s impact not only on the environment but also on the occupant. This approach prioritizes the comfort of the occupant and sustainability and sets a new challenge for the architects. It creates space for architects to rethink their design strategies and enables them to embrace innovative solutions.
So why should Passivhaus be something you should follow? Whether you are an architect or passionate about sustainable living, Passivhaus offers us valuable insights into designing buildings that are both environmentally friendly and comfortable to live in. It has many advantages, such as enhancing building performance, being environmentally friendly, prioritizing health and well-being, and providing financial support due to the lower energy consumption. With a strong emphasis on long-term sustainability and well-being, Passivhaus can be a very practical and easy-to-implement way to reshape the way we approach design and living spaces.
In the midst of pressing issues such as climate change and rising energy consumption, Passivhaus offers us a new source of hope. It reminds us that by embracing thoughtful design and innovative solutions, we have the power to create a brighter future for ourselves and our planet. Exploring Passivhaus and similar approaches is an important step towards building a more sustainable world for future generations.
References:
What is passivhaus? Passivhaus Trust. Available at: https://www.passivhaustrust.org.uk/what_is_passivhaus.php.
