WHAT IS PASSIVE HOUSE?

Originating at Germany’s Passive House Institute, Passive House is the world's only performance-oriented construction standard with international accreditation. Emphasizing energy-efficient sustainability, Passive House standards prioritize year-round thermal comfort through carefully engineered and thoughtfully executed design.

Grounded in science, Passive House construction techniques reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool a building by up to 90%. Passive House recognizes eight core principles that work in unison to achieve truly exceptional performance standards and health benefits for your family.

EIGHT PRINCIPLES OF PASSIVE HOUSE

SUPERIOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Passive House buildings access advanced design techniques to achieve elite efficiency ratings, resulting in heating and cooling energy savings of up to 90%.

IMPERMEABILITY

Airtight construction standards focus on sealing the gaps and cracks that account for the majority of energy loss in most buildings.

SMART INSULATION

Passive homes are heavily insulated to inhibit heat transfer and prevent drafts. Extra-thick ceilings, and walls reduce thermal bridges and retain indoor comfort with less energy consumption.

ALL-SEASON COMFORT

Passive House thermal comfort standards require that indoor temperatures do not exceed 25°C for more than 10% of total annual hours.

ENGINEERED WINDOWS

Triple-glazed exterior-facing windows eliminate drafts while providing superior insulation, reducing heat loss and stopping condensation.

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Innovative, mechanically operated air filtration and circulation systems extract trace pollutants and particulate matter from indoor air to create a healthier living space.

HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION

Passive House ventilation technologies extract heat from outbound air as it is replaced with fresh air, enhancing indoor air quality while elevating energy efficiency.

ECOLOGICAL HARMONY

Lower energy input requirements reduce carbon footprint while diminished greenhouse gas consumption helps mitigate climate change.

Only by meeting these standards do buildings receive Passive House designation.

PASSIVE HOUSE AND NOLIA

By integrating advanced building systems and materials with Passive House principles, Nolia is positioned for sustainability and elite performance — for today and tomorrow.

Italian-designed, high-efficiency energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems with smart thermostats and multi-zone wireless controls enhance every Nolia home. Long-life triple-glazed windows improve energy efficiency while reducing noise transmission, and Nolia’s facade features beautiful, high-endurance, low-maintenance finishes.

Nolia uses blown-in cellulose insulation with an elevated R-value to help retain heat during the winter and ensure comfort in the summer. All exterior walls include an added layer of German-engineered, GUTEX Multitherm® wood fibre insulation for enhanced fire resistance and increased thermal rating.

“This project stands out because of its commitment to quality, sustainability, and timeless design. These homes are designed to elevate daily life with longevity and integrity at their core. Built to the Passive House standard, every detail has been carefully considered, offering energy efficiency and comfort year-round.”

— GEZA ZELLERMAN,
CORNERSTONE ARCHITECTS