At ENV Design Canberra, we believe sustainable homes should not only be energy-efficient and environmentally responsible but also beautifully designed and deeply connected to their surroundings. Our knockdown-rebuild for Paul and Susi in O’Connor, achieves this balance, blending Passive House principles, natural materials, and cutting-edge energy efficiency with a strong connection to Canberra’s landscape.
Built in collaboration with Craft Building and featuring strawbale construction by Huff 'n' Puff Constructions, this home has set a new benchmark for sustainable living. It has been certified as a Low Energy Building by the Australian Passive House Association, consuming less than 10% of the energy used by a standard German home.
This remarkable home has also been featured and opened to the public during Sustainable House Day Canberra, inspiring visitors with its low-energy footprint, innovative materials, and carefully framed views of Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie.
Precision & Craftsmanship: The Role of Craft Building
Executing such a complex and detail-oriented build required expert project management and craftsmanship. Keiran and Sherri from Craft Building played a crucial role in navigating the challenges of the COVID pandemic, ensuring that the home was delivered to the highest possible standard despite supply chain disruptions and labor shortages.
Their tireless attention to detail was evident in every stage of construction, from achieving an airtight building envelope to ensuring the seamless integration of salvaged materials into the new design. The result is a home that is not only highly functional and efficient but also a beautifully crafted space that will serve the Doyles for decades to come.
A Low-Energy Home Built for Performance & Comfort
Designed to Passive House principles, the home incorporates:
High-performance timber framing, ensuring structural integrity while maximizing insulation
Triple-glazed windows, dramatically reducing heat loss and outside noise
Airtight construction, minimizing energy leaks and improving indoor air quality
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, ensuring fresh, filtered air year-round
Strawbale insulation, providing exceptional thermal performance and a natural aesthetic
Framing Canberra’s Iconic Views
Beyond performance, the home was carefully designed to capture and celebrate its surroundings. Windows were strategically positioned to frame stunning views of Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie, allowing the natural landscape to become an integral part of the home’s interior experience. These framed views not only enhance the visual appeal but also reinforce the home’s connection to nature, seasons, and changing light.
Exposed Concrete Flooring: Thermal Mass Meets Modern Elegance
The exposed concrete floor serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Acting as a thermal mass, it absorbs heat during the day and slowly releases it overnight, stabilizing indoor temperatures and reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling. Its polished, modern finish complements the warmth of timber accents and strawbale walls, creating a harmonious blend of natural textures and contemporary design.
Smart Solar & EV Charging Integration
Sustainability was a priority throughout the build, and the home’s rooftop photovoltaic system plays a critical role in achieving energy independence. Generating clean, renewable energy on-site, the system significantly reduces reliance on the grid. Additionally, the home is equipped with EV charging capabilities, ensuring that future transportation needs align with the Doyles’ commitment to a low-carbon lifestyle.
Electric External Shading & Automated Blinds
To enhance comfort and optimize passive solar control, the home features electric external window shading and automated blinds. These responsive shading systems:
Block excess summer heat, reducing cooling demands
Allow winter sun to penetrate, maximizing natural warmth
Improve privacy and comfort, with effortless adjustability
These smart systems work in harmony with the home’s passive design strategies, ensuring a stable indoor climate without the need for excessive heating or cooling.
A Home That Showcases Sustainable Living
With its ultra-low energy consumption, Passive House certification, and recognition on Sustainable House Day, this home is proof that sustainability and architectural beauty can go hand in hand. It offers:
Superior energy efficiency, consuming less than 10% of the energy of a standard German home
A seamless indoor-outdoor relationship, with framed views of Mount Ainslie and Black Mountain
Thoughtful material reuse, incorporating salvaged bricks, roof timbers, and natural strawbale insulation
Integrated solar and EV charging, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
High-tech shading and automation, enhancing comfort and efficiency
If you’re looking to build a high-performance, energy-efficient home, contact us today