Passive House or Passive Solar? Why it doesn’t have to be either, or!

The term "Passive House" (or Passivhaus) and "passive solar" are often debated, but in reality, they are not in opposition to each other. Incorporating passive solar design principles into every house is undoubtedly beneficial, as it allows homeowners to optimise their homes based on their unique climate and orientation. However, Passivhaus takes the concept of sustainable design to a whole new level. It goes above and beyond by prioritising the creation of a genuinely healthy and comfortable living environment, with sustainability as a natural by-product.

Many people wake up to condensation dripping from windows, return to uncomfortably hot homes in the summer, face high CO2 levels in their bedrooms, encounter visible mould, or experience drafts on windy days. These are common issues that can be overcome by following Passivhaus principles, which ensure a safe, healthy, and comfortable living space. On the other hand, passive solar design principles mainly focus on optimising the local environment, such as utilising the sun for heating while mitigating excessive summer radiation. While crucial for any house design, passive solar design alone can not guarantee a healthy environment or provide measurable metrics to achieve it.

It is important to recognise that passive solar design and Passivhaus are complementary and work together to maximise the benefits. By combining these principles, homeowners can strive for sustainable and fulfilling living spaces that enhance their well-being while minimising their impact on the environment. The integration of both approaches creates homes that are not only energy-efficient but also provide a truly healthy and comfortable living environment for its occupants.

Our Harry Passive House doesn’t have any West facing glazing.

Our perspective on the Passivhaus and Passive Solar discussion was featured in an article by The Design Files.