by Lidija Grozdanic via inhabitat
The world's first Passive House Premium-certified building in Germany is said to already exceed the EU energy directive applicable to all new buildings starting in 2021. This mixed-use building is uniquely energy efficient - with a heating demand of only 8 kWh per square meter - and boasts excellent levels of thermal protection, an airtight building envelope, heat recovery ventilation system, ground-source heat pump and a photovoltaic system. This remarkable building will open its doors to the public during this month's international Passive House Days 2015.
The 900-square-meter building is officially known as the “House of Energy” and accommodates various functions-from office spaces to training center, exhibition areas and apartments. Helmed by Markus Mayer and his company AIROPTIMA, and designed by Barbara Glantschnig of bg architektur, House of Energy features pioneering technologies combined with a perfectly insulated building envelope.
Inside, the house features smart monitors by JUNG, which provide information on energy usage, temperatures and other important functions. Seven touch panels installed in the individual office units and the operations manager’s apartment control heating, lighting, cooling and ventilation. This technology, including climate sensors, can be operated remotely, via mobile devices and smartphones.