Passive house

SPEND SOME TIME READING THIS INFORMATION, SO YOU MAY ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE LIVING IN A PASSIVE HOUSE BUILDING.

Passive what?

Passive House is a voluntary standard for energy efficient building design. By creating a highly insulated and airtight space, the internal and external environments are isolated. This means the internal heat loads can be used to create a comfortable living space. But even more exciting is that if this building is used correctly, it will use only about 25%-30% of the energy used by an equivalent building not designed to these standards.

How does the climate control work in the building?

Passive House requires that the building maintains an average temperature between 20°C and 25°C through 90% of the year. This means that you can achieve a comfortable temperature without the need for heating or cooling. But on the odd occasion, if it does become a little bit too hot for your liking, there’s a fan in your apartment to help with reducing the temperature

Does this mean I can’t open my window?

Operable windows are a very important part of this building. You will notice that the windows at the end of the corridors are automated. At night time, this will allow the building to release any excess heat built up during the day. Make sure you don’t leave anything in front of these windows. You can also open the window in your apartment at any time you feel like it. But be mindful about how you use your window. If you leave for class with your window open during one of those very hot days, your apartment could be very hot when you come back or vice versa in winter.

If it is air-tight, how do I get any fresh air?

While the building is air tight, a mechanical system is used to provide fresh air through the building. This means that you will always have a consistent flow of fresh air through your studio apartment

What can I do to improve the performance of my studio apartment?

As you get accustomed to your apartment you will find that your window and blinds can have an incredible impact on the thermal comfort. For instance on very hot days, having your window closed and the sheer blind down will cut out most direct sun light and heat, in turn leaving you with a comfortable space to enjoy. Likewise if it feels a little too warm in the apartment but the temperature outside feels cooler, opening your window will help release some of the heat. Comfort is a very personal thing and each occupant would want their apartment performing differently. In this vein, we encourage you to experiment with the window and blinds to find the performance that best suits you. But remember, to be on the safe side, always close the windows when you leave your apartment.

What do I do if I damage the timber?

Cross Laminate Timber (CLT) is a very robust material, and we have also applied a protective sealant to the exposed timber. So if there are any scuff marks or the like, you can simply wipe them off with a damp cloth. Any damage to the timber would generally be the result of how the space is used. To best protect the CLT, please use the pin boards provided to stick up items on the walls and do not use nails or pins on the timber. We ask that you do not etch anything in to the walls. If you notice and dints or dents, please inform the Residential Office immediately.