Creative & Sustainable Design for Residential Projects
Joshua Hovey is a RIBA Chartered Architect & Certified Passivhaus Designer, Serving Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Surrounding Areas.
Sustainable & Innovative
New-Build
We help self-builders looking to design their dream eco-home, and land owners looking to maximise the potential of their plot. We have a proven track record of securing planning permission within challenging design constraints such as conservation areas, national parks, AONBs and near listed buildings.
Contemporary Extensions
We design beautiful contemporary extensions. Transform your living space by adding natural light, improving the connection with the outdoors and creating harmony between spaces.
Listed and Heritage Property Alterations
Do you have a listed building or period property which lacks natural light, feels disconnected from the outside and has poor flow between living spaces? We are experts at turning period properties into functional homes, customised for modern living.
Sensitively Designed Barn Conversions
We are architects skilled at working with listed buildings such as barn conversions, in conservation areas and AONBs and with complex design constraints. Let us help you to make the best use of your existing building.
Passivhaus Certified Designer | Joshua Hovey Architects
5 Ways a Passivhaus Certified Designer Can Help Create Your Dream Home
Ensuring Optimal Energy Efficiency
A Passivhaus certified designer brings unparalleled expertise in achieving optimal energy efficiency for your home. They are trained to implement the Passivhaus standard, which focuses on creating buildings that require minimal energy for heating and cooling. By carefully selecting high-performance insulation, windows, and ventilation systems, a certified designer ensures your home will maintain a comfortable temperature year-round while significantly reducing energy costs. Their knowledge helps you achieve a home that is both eco-friendly and economically efficient.
Customising Design to Your Site and Climate
One of the key benefits of working with a Passivhaus certified designer is their ability to tailor the design to your specific site and climate. They will assess factors such as sun exposure, wind patterns, and local weather conditions to optimise your home’s orientation and layout. This bespoke approach maximises natural light and passive solar gain, enhancing your home’s energy efficiency while creating a living space that harmonises with its environment.
Incorporating Advanced Building Technologies
A Passivhaus certified designer is adept at incorporating advanced building technologies that are essential for meeting Passivhaus standards. This includes integrating high-performance mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery, advanced window and door technologies, and cutting-edge insulation materials. These technologies work together to create a home that is airtight and energy-efficient, providing you with a superior level of comfort and sustainability.
Guiding You Through Certification and Compliance
Navigating the certification process for a Passivhaus project can be complex, but a Passivhaus certified designer is well-equipped to guide you through every step. They ensure that your design complies with the stringent Passivhaus criteria and assist with the necessary documentation and certification processes. Their expertise helps streamline the journey from concept to completion, ensuring that your home meets all the requirements for Passivhaus certification.
Creating a Sustainable and Health-Conscious Home
Beyond energy efficiency, a Passivhaus certified designer focuses on creating a sustainable and health-conscious living environment. They prioritise indoor air quality by incorporating advanced ventilation systems that continuously provide fresh air while recovering heat. Additionally, their design approach often includes the use of sustainable, non-toxic materials that contribute to a healthier indoor environment. This holistic approach ensures your home is not only energy-efficient but also promotes overall well-being and sustainability.
By engaging a Passivhaus certified designer, you benefit from their specialised knowledge and skills in creating a dream home that excels in energy efficiency, site-specific design, advanced technology, certification support, and sustainability. Their expertise helps ensure that your home is not only a luxurious and comfortable space but also a model of modern, eco-friendly living.