Oxford Passivhaus Retrofit

We’re excited to showcase our recently completed Oxford Passivhaus Renovation! This beautiful 1920s home has been meticulously transformed, certified to full Passivhaus standard.

Our clients aimed to enhance their home’s thermal efficiency, reduce its environmental footprint, and create a more comfortable living space. Because of a roof leak demanding immediate attention, we developed a whole house plan. This ensured the home could quickly be made watertight, while also minimizing future reworking when the full renovation was finalized.

This project beautifully blends sustainability with thoughtful design, offering a glimpse into the future of eco-friendly living.

Here are some key features of the Oxford Passivhaus Renovation:

  • Character Preservation & Enhancements: We carefully retained the home’s original charm, preserving details like the distinctive render. Personal touches and playful elements were also added, such as a whimsical mouse on the lead detailing above the entrance canopy.
  • Thermal Upgrades: To significantly reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency, we detailed insulation over the existing rafters and external wall insulation.
  • Window and Rooflight Replacement: New windows and rooflights with high-performance, triple-glazing were installed. This not only boosted the home’s thermal efficiency but also improved acoustic insulation and security.
  • Renewable Energy Systems: After minimizing the building’s energy demand, solar panels, a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system, and an air source heat pump were added. These systems help power the home sustainably and further enhance energy efficiency.

Together, these thoughtful upgrades merge the old-world charm of the property with cutting-edge sustainable technologies, offering a more comfortable and eco-friendly living environment.

Our clients’ passion for their retrofit project didn’t stop at their doorstep—they actively engaged with the community! They opened their home to visitors during Oxford Open Doors and Energy Saving Homes Open Days, inviting people to explore the remarkable upgrades first-hand.

Curious about the Passivhaus standard? Discover more on our dedicated page, where we dive into the details of this sustainable building approach. To see more of our retrofit and new build projects, explore our full portfolio here.