We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to ancestors, country and community. We pay our respects to their Elders both past and present and to their enduring cultures.
Ferny Creek Passive House
New Passive House with a European flair in the beautiful context of the Dandenong Ranges
LOCATION
Ferny Creek, VIC
TYPE
Residential
YEAR
2024
STATUS
PROJECT OVERVIEW
A passive house in harmony with its landscape
Ferny Creek Passive House is a cutting-edge residential project designed to embody sustainability, modern aesthetics and energy efficiency, drawing inspiration from passive house principles. Situated in the picturesque landscape of Ferny Creek, Australia, this home showcases a seamless integration with its natural surroundings, while promoting a harmonious and energy-efficient lifestyle.
01 — Design
Modern design with a European flair
The design emphasises clean lines, minimalist aesthetics and an open-plan layout, characteristic of modern European architecture. Large, expansive windows flood the interior with natural light, creating a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors while maximising passive solar gain — an essential element of passive house principles. The exterior is clad in timber left to grey off over time, enhancing the home's aesthetic appeal while aiding durability and energy performance. Subtle yet striking European elements, like wide eaves and streamlined facades, contribute to the overall contemporary feel.
02 — Context
Rooted in its natural setting
Ferny Creek Passive House is thoughtfully placed to respond to its natural context, blending with the sloping topography and verdant forest backdrop. The choice of materials, such as timber cladding, resonates with the natural beauty of the site, creating a sensory connection between the built environment and the native landscape. The home's orientation was carefully considered to maximise solar exposure, using large north-facing windows to draw sunlight in while minimising the need for artificial lighting and heating — helping maintain comfortable temperatures year-round and significantly reducing its ecological footprint.
03 — Performance
Energy efficiency at its core
True to passive house standards, the Ferny Creek home is designed with advanced insulation, air-tight construction, and high-performance windows and doors, ensuring optimal thermal performance. The integration of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) ensures continuous airflow, maintaining indoor air quality without losing valuable heat energy. The result is a home that consumes minimal energy for heating and cooling while maintaining a comfortable, healthy indoor environment.