Sunday, July 24, 2011

German Design - the PassivHaus

The Passivhaus standard of building originates from conversations between German and Swedish professors, Wolfgang Feist and Bo Adamson in the late 80's.  After numerous research studies and funding by the German state of Hessen - the concept was born. 

Building by Passivhaus standard means that the resulting building requires very little energy to keep the temperature right no matter what the temperature is outside - so you end up with a super energy efficient home with a small ecological footprint. The concept is not only restricted to building homes but has also been applied office buildings, schools and supermarkets.


Super insulation and airtightness are the main factors that allow this concept to work.  This minimizes heat loss so that heating needs are about 90% less than those of a standard home. A passive house essentially heats itself by retaining the warmth generated by its occupants and electrical devices as well as using a unique mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system.

Building with this concept ensures a home that always has a comfortable temperature and they usually look really good and stylish - modern design using concrete and natural materials.  I would definitely consider building a future home by Passivhaus standards.

Take a look at this one,the Oberen Berg House by Alexander Brenner in Stuttgart, Germany.  I really like it:
photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt

photo credit: Alexander Brenner Achitekt  


I think it's just beautiful.

See you next time,
xoxo
Holly

1 comment:

  1. ~ that's one awesome house!...recently came across it on a relevant site and have been really stunned by the brilliancy of the project + design
    ~ just love the idea of an eco friendly,energy sufficient house.
    ~ it's seems to be a little tiny bit out of budget for the time being ;)

    ...hope you are well Holy!...whenever you have time today, I'd love to hear you :)

    Have a lovely morning!
    Iro, xxx

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