It takes little additional cost to design and build a high-performing or Passive Home. It's simply a case of working with someone who has taken the time and effort required to master modern construction methods and materials that deliver proper comfort and performance. 

We have recently designed and priced high-performing homes against their industry standard 90mm timber framed counterparts. Our findings are that durability, performance and comfort increase by 300-400% + with similar, and at times lower construction costs than a standard timber framed home.

A full-blown passive home requires more checks and balances along the way, and comes at additional cost for testing and certification. However, the end result is at the very top of global standards of super energy efficiency, comfort and performance.  

Whatever pathway you take be it a Passive or High Performing home, we can assist you from your first considerations to moving into an environment like no other. These homes need to be experienced to be appreciated and once you do there is no going back.

If you would like to know more, or if you would like to visit an exceptionally high-performing home, then call Andre on 021 768 394 or email us at studio(at)creativespace.co.nz.

Key Principles of Passive and High-Performance Homes

1. Thermal Insulation: Great insulation with minimal thermal bridges prevents heat from escaping during colder months and keeps the interior cool during hotter periods. Selecting the correct construction method can provide substantial increases in thermal insulation at very little if any additional cost. 
2. Airtight Construction: Unlike conventional homes that might have leaks and drafts, passive and high-performing homes are constructed to be airtight. This prevents the exchange of indoor and outdoor air, reducing heating or cooling energy demands. 
3. High-Quality Windows and Doors: Passive and high-performance homes feature quality windows and doors that offer improved insulation and minimal thermal bridging. This can range from an excellent thermally broken aluminium suites, to PVC air-tight joinery. 
4. Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): Passive and high-performing homes are equipped with mechanical ventilation systems that ensure a constant supply of healthy fresh air while recovering heat from the outgoing stale air. Paired with simple AC units it takes very little energy to heat or cool your home during extremely hot or cold weather events.
5. Passive Solar Design: The orientation and fundamental design of a passive or high-performing home captures the sun's energy for heating during the colder months when the sun is low. This also provides a cool environment during the warmer months when the sun is high on the horizon.

Benefits of Passive Homes

1. Super Energy Efficiency: The primary advantage of passive and high-performing homes is their remarkable energy efficiency. They use up to 90% less energy for heating and cooling compared to traditional homes
2. Comfort: Thanks to their airtight design and superior insulation, passive and high-performance homes offer consistent and extremely comfortable indoor temperatures without additional energy requirements (heated towel rails become a significant heat source). 
3. Improved Air Quality: Mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery ensure a constant supply of fresh air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment when doors and windows are closed.
4. Environmental Impact: By minimizing energy consumption, passive homes significantly reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
5. Long-Term Savings: The long-term savings on energy bills and maintenance expenses make passive and high-performance homes a cost-effective investment.

Whether you're an eco-conscious individual, a homeowner looking to minimize energy bills, or simply someone fascinated by innovation, passive and high-performance homes are a concept well worth exploring. Welcome to the future of sustainable living!