The Hütt 01 PassivHaus is a beautiful example of homes of the
future. What inspired the initial vision for this home?
We envisioned a family home where luxury and sustainability can
go hand in hand proving that a house designed for both people
and the planet can be vibrant, exciting, and deliver an unparalleled
lifestyle: it's an eco-luxe dream. Our goal was to inspire others by
demonstrating that every single home has the power to make our
world a better place.
The patterned recycled brick façade, Castlemaine sandstone,
and sustainable timber are striking features. How did you select
these materials, and what role do they play in achieving the
home’s aesthetic and sustainable goals?
We wanted to use materials that felt inherently organic, materials
that foster a deep connection to nature and have a calming - almost
therapeutic - effect on people. We wanted the home to truly be
rejuvenating, making us feel like we are in our own oasis, outside of
the city.
As a little fun element the bricks display their ‘insides’ in a decorative
strip, giving an insight into Melbourne’s history of brick-making -
including two very special bricks from the 1956 Olympics here in
Melbourne at either end of the wall.
Using timber from responsibly managed forests was a no-brainer for
us. This means the rate of replanting exceeds harvesting, ensuring the
forest continues to thrive. Timber is a fantastic material—it absorbs
carbon throughout its life, acting like a natural carbon sponge.
The rooftop garden is a showstopper. What was the inspiration
behind its creation and how does it enhance your living
experience?
It truly is an incredible space. The inspiration behind the rooftop
garden was rooted in our desire to give back to the earth as much
as we take. When we build, we often cover the ground, reducing
space for biodiversity and a healthy planet. By transforming the roof
into a thriving green space, we’re able to return that land to nature,
welcoming wildlife and fostering biodiversity.
It provides excellent insulation for the rooms below, helps capture
carbon, produces oxygen, and contributes to cooling the environment
around us. Best of all it offers a breath-taking view from our bedroom
and is our favourite space to enjoy reading a book in peace and quiet,
all you hear are the birds tweeting.
How did the concept evolve during the design process for you
as architect and homeowner?
It's funny you ask that—many people have asked this question, as it's
quite a complex build! Interestingly, the concept began with a quick
sketch on the back of an envelope. We wanted to see if we could
design something that not only worked harmoniously with the site but
also maximised northern sunlight and garden spaces while creating
meaningful, inspiring interiors. Amazingly, that initial sketch closely
resembles what you see here today. A eco luxe home with thermal
comfort, fresh filtered air free from pollen and pollutants, a healthy
indoor environment, and low energy bills—why wouldn’t that be the
foundation of a luxury home? True luxury isn’t just about expensive
materials and finishes; it’s also about a lifestyle that enhances your
well-being and brings joy.
March 2025
In Focus Magazine
05