Developing the Passive House

THE COMMON ECOLOGY PASSIVE HOUSE PROJECT

The Common Ecology Passive House Project, currently under development by Brennan + Company Architects, will create a sustainable housing development model that is affordable, can be immediately deployed and has the potential to mitigate residential impacts on climate change.

The Common Ecology Passive House will apply both ancient and innovative passive heating and cooling techniques to achieve a dramatic reduction in energy demands. A symbiotic relationship between the home, the landscape, the thermal mass of the earth and the energy of the sun will accommodate almost all energy demand. Remaining energy demand will be met entirely with on-site renewable energy generation.

Building materials will be sourced locally - from the site itself or the surrounding local community - whenever possible to reduce the carbon footprint and cost of construction as well as operation. Water conservation and natural storm water management practices will reduce stress on local water sources and protect the precious Chesapeake watershed.