Passive House Design using Low Embodied Energy Natural Building Materials: A Case Study Approach

Embarking on the journey of Passive House design involves marrying cutting-edge building science with sustainable practices. This presentation seeks to explore the seamless integration of low embodied energy, natural building materials in Passive House construction. Drawing from a case study of a Passive House project in northern Sydney, we will delve into the intricacies of material selection, airtightness considerations, and potential challenges and solutions associated with these unique materials.

This presentation aims to inspire and guide Passive House practitioners on the path to integrating natural building materials seamlessly into Passive House construction. By combining theoretical insights, and case studies, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits, challenges, and innovative solutions associated with this approach. Together, let's redefine Passive House design by embracing the sustainable potential of natural building materials.

Key learning outcomes

1. That natural materials can easily reused to achieve Passive House standard

2 How natural materials, particularly Hempcrete can make a simple PH compliant wall

3. Demonstration of a house where PH achieved using Hempcrete.

4. How Hempcrete and natural building materials are a growing marked as we move toward low carbon and low embodied energy

building

About the Presenter:

Kirstie Wulf, from Shelter Building Design, comes from a background in natural Building materials, with a particular focus on Hempcrete. She undertook her Passive House Designer training with the specific aim of combining natural building materials and Passive House. Shelter Building Design currently have a number of Hempcrete Passive House projects underway. Kirstie has presented on "High Performance Buildings Using Natural Building Materials" at the 2023 Off Grid Living Festival and presented "A Case Study of Hempcrete as a non-combustible wall material" at the 2023 Bushfire Building Conference.

Event Details:

• Date: 16th July 2025
• Time 12:30pm - 1:30pm (AEST)

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