Conrad EnerPHit 2024

Conrad EnerPHit

A leaky, cold 1950s weatherboard home has been completed transformed into one of Australia’s most healthy, comfortable and energy efficient buildings we’ve been able to achieve this by applying the voluntary international standard Passivhaus or the less commonly know term EnerPHit (retrofitting existing building to Passivhaus).

There are only a small number of EnerPHit homes in Australia, our dwelling not only defies conventional norms but also presents a captivating narrative of sustainability. Instead of succumbing to the trend of knockdown rebuilds, we embraced a conscientious approach, minimizing waste and embodied energy in the construction process. Our home is a real-life example of the benefits that can be reaped by adopting such a mindset—a true testament to the possibilities that lie beyond traditional ‘renovation’ methods.

Join us as we unveil the unique features and repurposed elements that characterize this exceptional home. Beyond showcasing this recently completed project, our primary goal is to kindle awareness about the transformative power of Passivhaus.

By sharing our journey, we hope to inspire a shift in the way Melbourne and Australia approach construction—a shift that prioritizes the well-being of both inhabitants and the planet. Welcome to a realm where healthy homes contribute to healthy lives and a sustainable future.

 

All photography by Dean Bradley www.deanbradleyphotography.com

Sustainability Features

Years Open
2024
ENERGY AND WATER EFFICIENT FEATURES
    • Energy efficiency:
    • Draught proofing
      Efficient lighting
      Efficient appliances
      Energy monitoring
      Smart home features
    • Passive heating cooling:
    • Heat recovery ventilation system
    • Active heating cooling:
    • Heat exchange ventilation system
      Heat pump
    • Water heating:
    • Hot water heat pump
    • Water harvesting and saving features:
    • Rainwater storage - Above ground
    • Average water consumption per day:
    • 140L
    • Above ground rainwater storage Type:
    • Water Tank
    • Above ground rainwater storage Size
    • 2500L
    • Energy Efficient Lighting
    • LED lights throughout
      Natural daylight
    • Window Protection:
    • Drapes/curtains
      Eaves
SUSTAINABLE & RECYCLED MATERIALS
    • Recycled and reused materials:
    • Hardwood framing
    • Sustainable materials:
    • We priorities the reuse of exciting materials and all new materials with low imbodied energy eg lightweight timber
    • Recycled and reused materials:
    • Bathroom cabinets
      Bricks
      Cladding
      Decking
      Floorboards

INSULATION SPECIFICATIONS
    • Insulation Type:
    • Under-roof
      Ceiling
      Internal walls
      External walls
      Floor
    • Ceiling Type:
    • insulation is at rafter height
    • Floor Type:
    • Bulk - glass wool
    • Floor Rating:
    • combination of R4 in extension and R5 to existing house
    • Under Roof Insulation Type:
    • Drainage plane air gap and woodfibre insulation to the top of rafters
    • Under Roof Insulation Rating:
    • R-5
    • Internal Walls Insulation Type:
    • Bulk – glass wool
    • Internal Walls Insulation Rating:
    • R-2.5 sound batts
    • External Walls Rating:
    • R4.2
    • External Walls Type:
    • combination of glasswool and woodfibre board
RENEWABLE ENERGY SPECIFICATIONS
    • All-Electric Home?
    • Yes
    • Renewable energy used:
    • Solar PV grid connect
    • Size of PV system:
    • 7.47kW
    • Average Daily Energy Consumption:
    • 4.8kWh
COSTS AND COST SAVINGS
    • Estimate of annual savings:
    • $2400
HOUSE DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS
    • House Size
    • 219
    • BAL Rating
    • No BAL rating requirements at time of construction
    • Roof
    • Metal (Colorbond)
    • Wall Materials
    • Timber
    • Window and Door Types
    • Tilt and turn
    • Universal Design Features
    • Hobless showers
      Minimum 110cm wide hallways
    • Number of bedrooms
    • 4
    • Number of bathrooms
    • 3
    • Healthy Home Materials
    • Airtight house design
      Heat recovery ventilation (HRV)
      Low VOC paints/sealer/varnish
      Natural light and ventilation
      Natural oil sealer/finishes
      VOC free paints/sealer/varnish
GARDEN AND WASTE REDUCTION
    • Garden / Outdoors
    • Local indigenous plants
      Native plants
    • Waste Reduction Practices:
    • Book exchange/library
      Compost all food scraps
      Pickle and preserve food
      Recycle
      Repair
      Swap with friends and neighbours
      Waste free/reduced construction site
HEALTHY HOME FEATURES
    • Healthy home features
    • Airtight house design
      Heat recovery ventilation (HRV)
      Low VOC paints/sealer/varnish
      Natural light and ventilation
      Natural oil sealer/finishes
      VOC free paints/sealer/varnish
Location
Blackburn North VIC 3130
    • Housing Type:
    • Standalone House
    • Project Type:
    • Retrofit/addition
    • Builder
    • Alwyn Projects
    • Designer
    • The Haus by Tylah and Dylan

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