Passive House Timber Construction
Oak Tree House is a stunningly beautiful house located in Whickham, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Project Overview
Oak Tree House is the first in a series of projects demonstrating that, through genuine collaboration between designers and builders, it is possible to deliver timber structures without aesthetic limits, while also achieving economic sustainability.
Designed to meet the rigorous Passive House certification, the structure was required to satisfy strict airtightness and thermal performance criteria.
This introduced challenging detailing requirements, which were addressed collaboratively across the project team. One such solution included the use of a twin-wall system to provide sufficient depth for insulation, while maintaining airtightness and improving the structural performance of the wall.
Passive House New Build
Designers, Builders, The Home Engineers (Structural)
Structural Engineering Services, Sustainable Design
Project Challenges
This project presented the challenge of designing a timber structure that met the strict criteria of Passive House certification.
The detailing had to ensure continuous airtight and thermal lines, while also maintaining structural integrity and supporting the architectural vision.
The Solution
To overcome these challenges, a twin-wall construction was used to provide the required depth for insulation.
This approach maintained airtightness, enhanced structural performance, and allowed the building to meet Passive House standards.
Close collaboration between the designers, builders, and structural engineers was essential in resolving the detailing without compromising sustainability or aesthetics.
The Outcome
Oak Tree House set a benchmark for future projects by demonstrating that timber structures can be both architecturally ambitious and environmentally responsible.
The project successfully balanced aesthetics, performance, and collaboration, ensuring the building met Passive House certification standards.
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