The renovation project for a two-storey warehouse in Melbourne, Australia focused on achieving the Passive House (PassivHaus) standard, which is a voluntary European building standard that aims to provide a comfortable internal environment while reducing household energy use by up to 90%. The project involved a complete restructuring to meet the Passive House requirements and the client’s needs, with an emphasis on sustainability.

Although the finished project did not receive official PassivHaus accreditation, it earned a 7.1 Star rating under the Australian NATHERS energy efficiency rating tool, indicating its high level of energy efficiency. The renovation incorporated several energy-saving techniques, such as airtightness, triple glazed glass, thermal bridging, and two types of insulation, to retain thermal energy inside the home and reduce energy consumption.

In addition to energy efficiency, the renovation also paid tribute to the building’s warehouse heritage by combining industrial elements, such as exposed steel beams and metal finishes, with natural timbers. The ground floor was divided into separate spaces, including bedrooms, a study, bathroom, and laundry, while the first floor featured an open, expansive living area with city views and outdoor living space.

Overall, the renovation successfully achieved a high level of sustainability, energy efficiency, and functionality while creating an aesthetically pleasing living space.

PROJECT DETAILS

• Type: Warehouse Refurbishment
• Completion Year: 2016
• Services: Full Architectural Services
• Location: West Melbourne / City of Melbourne
• Energy Rating: 7.1 Stars NATHERS
• Site Area: 187m²
• Building Area: 152m²
• Client Brief:
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • 1 Laundry Room
  • Living Area
  • Dining Area & Kitchen
  • 1 Study
  • 1 Car Space
• Main Materials:
  • UForm – Translucent Glaze
  • Brick
  • Timber
• Notable Suppliers:
  • Windows and Doors – European Windows and Doors
  • Joinery – Design Excellence, David Elliot