Passive Design - Sustainable architecture solutions

In today’s environmentally conscious world - especially now since 7-star thermal efficiency ratings are mandated nationwide - designing a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient is a priority.

Passive design is a concept that leverages natural resources to heat, cool and illuminate your home and is at the heart of sustainable architecture. Essential to this design approach are high quality glass windows, doors and louvres. By strategically planning how sunlight, shade and airflow are integrated into a home’s design - to optimise its thermal performance - a passive home can maintain a stable and comfortable indoor temperature year-round with reduced energy consumption.

The Role of Timber Windows and Timber Doors in Passive Design

Custom windows and doors act as conduits for natural light and heat. By positioning large windows in north-facing rooms, homeowners can captialise on the winter sun to warm interior spaces, thereby reducing the need for artificial heating.

Stegbar’s Timberaul Windows and Doors range brings warmth and natural beauty into your home while delivering exceptional insulation. Timber frames offer thermal properties that help prevent heat loss during winter while keeping out heat during summer.

Stegbar’s Envira Collection of thermally broken aluminium windows and doors takes energy efficiency and modernity to the next level. Each window or door is encased in an aluminium frame with a polyamide strip that separates the internal and external sections of the frame, which reduces heat loss in winter and excess heat gain in summer.

Stegbar’s eX Hybrid Slimline range of aluminium windows and doors is engineered for thermal performance, without the price tag of a fully thermally broken frame - this is achieved by incorporating a thermal break in the window sash (the operating part of the window).

The Role of Louvres in Passive design

Timber louvres windows are another essential component of passive design, particularly for natural cooling and ventilation. They allow for controlled airflow and can be adjusted to direct breezes into the home, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

Stegbar’s Timberaul Breezeway Window Lourvres are designed to blend seamlessly with your home's aesthetics while providing superior airflow management.

Optimising Glass Windows, Doors and Louvres In Passive Design

Creating a home that excels in passive design requires planning with the following tips taken into consideration:

Orientation Matters:

Position large glass windows and doors to capture the north-facing winter sun while using louvres on opposite sides to promote cross-ventilation. 

Glazing:

Choose the right kind of glass for your custom made windows and doors to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.

• Toned Glass is ideal for windows exposed to strong sunlight. It minimises glare and helps reduce air conditioning needs. Toned glass is available in various tones to complement interior and exterior designs.
• Low E Glass features a transparent coating that reflects heat and cold, providing year-round comfort through enhanced insulation and solar protection. It allows ample natural light while offering UV protection to prevent the fading of furniture, carpets, and curtains. It can be used in double glazing for even better insulation and is available in both laminated and single-glazed options.
• Double Glazing provides thermal insulation, increased security, and noise reduction. It can be filled with air or gas for optimal performance, preventing condensation that could damage indoor surfaces. Double glazed windows and doors provide energy-efficient openings and is especially beneficial in colder climates.

Shading:

Install shading devices, such as eaves or pergolas, above windows and doors to prevent summer heat from entering your home, especially on west-facing elevations.

Assistance with Passive Design

Choosing Stegbar means investing in custom windows and doors that not only elevate your home’s design but also supports a sustainable and energy efficient lifestyle. For inspiration and guidance on integrating passive design into your next project, place a website enquiry, phone 1800 681 168 or find your closest showroom.