High Performance Home
Alpine Estate, Wanaka
Healthy Home Design
Nestled in the serene Alpine Estate, this dual-structure residence marks our early steps toward fully embracing passive home design. It showcases how strategic enhancements can profoundly impact home health and energy efficiency.
Design and Sustainability Intersect
The home consists of two main buildings linked by an enclosed pathway, each crafted to optimise natural light and functionality.
The main living area, with its generous windows and oversized doors, opens to a tranquil courtyard, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.
Photos by Simon Larkin.
Design by Ben Hudson Architects - View this project under construction here.
Key Performance Features
Key Performance Features
Advanced Window Solutions: We incorporated thermally broken, low-E argon-filled windows recessed into the walls to reduce heat loss.
Exceptional Insulation: The insulation exceeds standard building codes, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature of 20-23 degrees Celsius throughout the colder months without continuous heating.
Prioritizing Health and Comfort
Innovative Ventilation: A mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery ensures fresh air circulation without the need to open windows, maintaining warmth and preventing moisture-related issues like mould.
Healthy Building Materials: We chose low-toxicity Resene paints, E0 glue in plywood, formaldehyde-free insulation, and wool carpets, all contributing to superior indoor air quality.
Additional Sustainable Features
Slab Edge Insulation: This less common feature at the time of construction adds another layer of thermal efficiency.
Electrical and Plumbing Innovations: Thoughtful routing of electrical wiring around bed heads and comprehensive underfloor heating even in the garage, enhance both electromagnetic and physical comfort.
We Believe Healthy Homes Are The Future
Building a healthy home was crucial to this project at every stage. It is a testament to our commitment to improving living spaces in Wanaka using thoughtful, sustainable practices.
It highlights the environmental and health benefits achievable with just a few key enhancements, paving the way for our current and future high-performance building projects.
If you're inspired by sustainable living and are considering a performance home, we'd love to help you realise your vision.