Is Passivhaus The Key to Ultimate Building Comfort?
Buildings should do more than provide shelter; they should offer comfort, prioritise health, and encourage well-being. When it comes to designing buildings that excel in all these areas, Passivhaus principles are the gold standard. But how exactly does Passivhaus design improve comfort?
The Tin Barn EnerPHit, Photography: Ellen Christina Hancock
Thermal Comfort All Year Round
Passivhaus buildings maintain a consistent indoor temperature, no matter the season. By combining high-quality insulation, triple-glazed windows, and airtight construction, these buildings eliminate cold drafts and temperature fluctuations. Even during winter, the internal surface temperatures of walls and windows stay above 17°C, providing a warm and inviting environment. During summer, the combination of shading, optimised ventilation, and thermal mass ensures that indoor temperatures rarely exceed 25°C for more than 5% of the year. This makes them resilient against increasingly frequent heatwaves. These principles create a home where every room is equally comfortable, eliminating the need for heavy heating or cooling.
Healthier Indoor Air Quality
Thanks to mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) systems, Passivhaus buildings ensure a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air. This technology removes dust, allergens, and pollutants while retaining heat from outgoing air. Improving air quality can be transformative for allergy sufferers or those with respiratory sensitivities. Residents often report better sleep and respiratory health in Passivhaus homes.
The Garden Room, Photography: Ellen Christina Hancock
Quiet and Peaceful Spaces
Passivhaus buildings are renowned for their acoustic performance. Thick insulation and airtight construction reduce noise intrusion from outside, creating a peaceful environment. Whether it’s urban traffic or loud neighbours, external sounds are significantly dampened, giving you a tranquil retreat.
Reduced Energy Bills = Reduced Stress
Passivhaus design reduces energy consumption by up to 90% compared to conventional buildings. Passivhaus buildings only require 15 kWh/m²/year. Low energy bills mean less financial stress, allowing homeowners to focus on enjoying their space. For those in fuel poverty or with tight budgets, the reduced need for heating creates a stable, more affordable environment.
Proven Results
Years of research and occupant feedback highlight the satisfaction of living and working in Passivhaus-certified buildings. Residents consistently describe their spaces as warm, quiet, and easy to manage. From new builds to retrofits under the EnerPHit standard, Passivhaus provides measurable improvements in quality of life.
Bicester Eco Business Centre, Photography: Jack Hobhouse
Choosing Passivhaus means choosing a building that prioritises your comfort while aligning with sustainable values. We specialise in creating buildings that will meet Passivhaus or low energy standards and that will elevate the occupant experience. Contact us to explore how Passivhaus principles can redefine comfort in your next project.