“Passive Pleat” by Studiofang represents a significant milestone in Passivehouse design in Australia, particularly as one of the earlier adopters of this energy-efficient standard in the country. Located in a northeastern suburb of Melbourne, this single-storey dwelling, complemented by a double-storey garage-outhouse annex, meets the rigorous Passivehouse Classic standard, focusing on creating a sustainable and comfortable living environment.

The striking white sawtooth façade of Passive Pleat, coupled with a Structurally Insulated Panel (SIP) envelope, embodies Studiofang’s innovative approach to blending artistic expression with scientific precision. The design reflects the studio’s commitment to producing culturally meaningful, high-performance buildings that are both future-ready and sensitive to the environment.

Completed at the end of 2023, Passive Pleat prioritizes occupant health and well-being by integrating biophilic design elements that foster a strong connection between the indoors and the outdoors. This approach resonates with the Australian psyche, which values the seamless merging of living spaces with nature. Through this project, Studiofang demonstrates that it is possible to create architecturally distinctive homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient living experience.

Photography by Marnie Hawson