Passivhaus Design
Passivhaus Design
Passivhaus Design

What is Passivhaus Design

Passivhaus is a rigorous performance standard that delivers exceptional thermal comfort, air quality, and energy savings. Unlike conventional builds, Passivhaus homes are designed to maintain a stable indoor climate using ultra-efficient insulation, airtight construction, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

The result is a home that uses up to ninety percent less energy for heating and cooling, without compromising on aesthetics or comfort.

In the United Kingdom, Passivhaus is increasingly seen as a futureproof approach to housing. At Beattie, we help clients unlock the benefits of Passivhaus design with tailored advice, expertise, and a collaborative, design-led approach.

Our Passivhaus Design and Build Service

Our approach to Passivhaus design and build is grounded in practical collaboration and technical excellence. Whether we are working alongside your chosen contractor or delivering a complete Passivhaus solution for you, we ensure every detail aligns with the Passivhaus standard.

Technical Passivhaus Design

We work collaboratively with clients and directly with architects to deliver the technical architectural design for the Structural Thermal Envelope, we deliver:

  • 3D Revit model
  • Manufacturing schedules
  • 1-10 standard details
  • Material list
  • Structural engineering for the Structural Thermal Envelope and foundation design
  • SAP
  • Overheating Assessment
  • PHPP (Passive House Planning Package)
  • Independent Structural Inspections
  • Air, thermal and sound testing for the Structural Thermal Envelope
Passivhaus Design

Passivhaus feasibility Studies

Our Passivhaus feasibility study is designed to provide you with valuable insights into the viability of incorporating Passivhaus principles into your building project. Whether you’re considering new construction or retrofitting an existing building, our team of experts will assess various factors to determine the feasibility of meeting Passivhaus or EnerPHit standards.

Architectural Design

Our Passivhaus feasibility study is designed to provide you with valuable insights into the viability of incorporating Passivhaus principles into your building project. Whether you’re considering new construction or retrofitting an existing building, our team of experts will assess various factors to determine the feasibility of meeting Passivhaus or EnerPHit standards.

New Build System

Retrofit System

Technical

Benefits

Case Studies in Passivhaus Design Excellence

Explore a selection of homes built using the Beattie system. Each project follows our approach to Passivhaus principles and reflects our commitment to low energy, high performance, and timeless design. From compact new builds to complex rural homes, these homes demonstrate what is possible when the right system is in place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Passivhaus

We have answered some of the most common questions about Passivhaus design, certification, and how we work with clients to deliver energy-efficient buildings through our trusted process.

They are the same standard. Passivhaus is the original German term, developed in the early 1990s, while Passive House is its English equivalent. Both refer to a rigorous performance-based building methodology that dramatically reduces energy demand while improving comfort and indoor air quality.

Not necessarily. While formal certification through the Passivhaus Institute provides verified performance and quality assurance, it is possible to follow Passivhaus principles without going through the full certification process. We can advise on whether certification is right for your goals, budget, and planning context.

Yes. We offer full Passivhaus design and build support, ensuring continuity from concept to completion. We also provide design-only services if you already have a contractor or team in place. Our process is collaborative and adaptable.

As early as possible. Involving a Passivhaus designer at concept stage gives you the best chance of achieving high performance outcomes. Site orientation, massing, and layout all impact energy modelling, so early decisions can significantly improve results.

Yes, Passivhaus principles can be applied to existing buildings through the EnerPHit standard, which is specifically designed for retrofits. It focuses on improving insulation, airtightness, and ventilation to significantly reduce energy use while working within the constraints of existing structures. We can assess your project and recommend a strategy based on your goals.

One of the key advantages of a Passivhaus is that it requires very little space heating. In most cases, a small, low-output system such as a heat pump, electric panel, or post-heater in the MVHR system is sufficient. We work with you to specify an appropriate solution based on the design and use of the building.

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