We had searched for years for an energy efficient house and realised that we needed to build it ourselves. As we planned the build, we also realised it needed to provide a healthy environment, a quiet, calm space, be resilient, cater to our future ageing needs and importantly it needed to fit onto a tiny 380m2 block. The best solution for most of these criteria was to build a Passive House. The liveable area of the house is about 145m2. Even though the size is small, the house retains a feeling of space and light due to clever use of open areas, high windows and ceilings and large circulation spaces.
The bulk of the floor plan is invested in the living areas – places you spend most of your waking hours. Space is not consumed by extraneous hallways or extra bedrooms. Energy wise, it is fully self sufficient with 13.3 KW solar array, 13 Kw of batteries, electric car and wall charger.
It is well sealed as required by Passive House standards and the walls, roof space and slab are insulated. This ensures little energy is wasted heating and cooling the house. All windows and doors are double glazed and well-sealed. A HRV system provides fresh filtered air constantly and reduces airborne allergens.
We have included ageing-in-place principles including wide doorways, no steps, circulation spaces for wheelchairs, walk in shower and grabrails.
Four courtyard areas ensure we can find a comfortable outdoor area at any time of the year. We have also found space for raised vegetable garden beds, compost bin and worm farm, and have included as many native plantings as possible to encourage insect and bird populations.
We have lived in this house now for nearly one year and have been impressed with its energy efficiency and liveability.
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