Retirement Ready
Passive House +
Project Story
This certified Passive House Plus home in Camberwell is a fine example of sustainable retirement living in a style that is both modern and traditional .
Featuring a highly insulated envelope constructed entirely from SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels), this home is not only carbon neutral but actually carbon positive, generating more energy annually than it consumes. It also provides a safe stable environment with minimal running costs and maintenance requirements.
The owners wanted all the benefits of a tree change and a new build to meet their needs without having to move away from nearby friends, family, services, healthcare, golf and other clubs. The result is a meticulously tailored new residence designed for ageing in place, incorporating accessibility features such as a lift, wider doorways, level thresholds, and ample space for future ramps
Irene and Brian, a retired teacher and engineer, sought a final residence that could also serve as a welcoming family retreat.
The couple had raised their three children in the original home, which was extended and renovated in the 1990s. However, the house remained uncomfortable throughout the seasons, with a convoluted layout that didn’t support ageing in place. A new build offered the opportunity to create a comfortable, energy-efficient passive home that was perfectly tailored to their future needs.
Their design brief called for a Hampton-style home with Frank Lloyd Wright influence, incorporating wide eaves to provide shading and visual warmth.
The finished home boasts triple-glazed Aluclad windows, 6kW solar PV array, heat recovery ventilation, and a multi-head split system air conditioning for optimal comfort.
High ceilings and doors throughout create an airy, open feel, while the mechanical heating and cooling systems and heat pump hot water system ensure year-round efficiency.
The ground floor features a master suite with an ensuite, alongside a study, family room, kitchen with walk-in pantry, and laundry with a laundry chute leading to a service area that opens to a side garden for drying clothes.
Upstairs, an additional living space with stunning views over the treetops and distant landscape provides a serene retreat.
The alfresco area seamlessly connects to the north-facing rear garden, offering a sheltered space for outdoor entertaining, protected by deep eaves that provide ample shade.
This home is a carefully crafted sanctuary that balances modern aesthetics, sustainability, and the warmth of family living.

Details
Location: Camberwell VIC (Melbourne)
New Build Completed: 2021
Builder: Granted Construction
Engineer: TGA / STFAB
Architect & PH Designer: Sunpath Architects
PH Certifier: Detail Green, Luc Plowman
Sustainability Features in this Project
SIPs Construction
Fully Built with Structural Insulated Panels
Prefabricated SIPs Construction
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