Our first Certfied Passive House in Melbourne

You know our Forrest Street Passivhaus?

Well, it's now officially certified!

Seriously, we couldn't be more proud! 

The whole idea of certification is to verify and check everything that has been done through the design stage, all the way to the completion of the build. Certification not only confirms quality and compliance with strict standards but also accelerates a shift towards sustainable, energy-efficient building methods. I guess we really can call ourselves passive house builders now hey!!

I won't lie; it was not easy. The whole certification process took nearly a year after the clients moved in. I was a little naive, thinking getting that plaque on the wall would be easy, but it was a challenge. There was tons of documentation, testing, and lining up all of those ducks in a row to make sure the certifiers were happy with the final product.

Getting this certificate shows a huge commitment from everyone involved. It's the big tick to say it has been designed to consume little energy and held us as builders accountable for building that home as per the design.

But what did we learn? We thought we would reflect on our journey as Passive House Builders in Melbourne and look at what it really takes to improve and become the ultimate sustainable building experts.

They're Fun: Building a passive house is more than just a construction project; it's an exciting journey filled with creative opportunities. Unlike conventional homes, passive houses prioritise factors like orientation, insulation, and ventilation to maximise energy efficiency and comfort. This means you'll find yourself brainstorming innovative solutions with your team, exploring cutting-edge technologies, and witnessing your vision take shape in ways you never imagined. From selecting the correct materials for the right application to thinking ahead, every decision is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while creating a space that truly reflects your lifestyle and values.

It Should Be the New Normal: Sustainable Building isn't just a buzzword—it's a necessity. As climate change continues to threaten our planet, it's imperative that we rethink how we build and live in our homes. Passive houses offer a compelling solution by drastically reducing energy consumption, minimising carbon emissions, and providing healthier indoor environments. By embracing passive house principles, we can pave the way for a future where sustainable building is not only achievable but also accessible to everyone. It's time to shift our perspective from viewing sustainability as a luxury to recognising it as an essential component of modern living. 

Things Will Go Wrong: Let's face it—construction is unpredictable. No matter how meticulously you plan, there will inevitably be obstacles along the way. From supply chain disruptions to unforeseen site conditions, challenges are par for the course. However, it's essential to approach these setbacks with resilience and a problem-solving mindset. Instead of viewing them as roadblocks, see them as opportunities to innovate and improve. By staying flexible, communicating openly with your team, and maintaining a positive attitude, you'll navigate the ups and downs of the construction process with grace and determination. 

It Requires an Incredible Team: Building a passive house is a collaborative effort that requires expertise from various disciplines. From architects and engineers to builders and sustainability consultants, assembling the right team is crucial to the success of your project. Look for professionals who not only have the necessary skills and experience but also share your passion for sustainability and innovation. A cohesive team that communicates effectively collaborates seamlessly and remains committed to your vision will ensure that your passive house exceeds expectations and stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collective effort. We suggest getting your passive house architect involved in the project early with us as collaboration on all projects is essential in creating a passive house in Melbourne.

Getting a Home Airtight is Easy: Achieving a high level of airtightness is a hallmark of passive house construction, but it's also one of the most misunderstood aspects of the process. While it may seem daunting at first, creating an airtight envelope is entirely feasible with the right approach. This involves attention to detail during the design phase, meticulous installation of insulation and air sealing materials, and rigorous testing to identify and address any leaks. By prioritising airtightness, you'll not only enhance the energy efficiency of your home but also improve indoor air quality, reduce noise pollution, and create a more comfortable living environment for you and your family. We now think that any sustainable builder in Melbourne should be able to work airtightness into their build and think ahead of all the problems they may face to ensure their home is airtight.