Passive House Podcast

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, hosts Mary James and Ilka Cassidy sit down with Kristina Held, principal and founder of Held Architecture. Kristina shares her fascinating path through architectural education in Serbia, Germany, and the U.S., and how that global experience shaped her approach to Passive House. From humidity challenges in the Carolinas to adaptive reuse and detailing with precision, Kristina offers deep insight into designing for performance, comfort, and climate resilience.https://www.heldarch.com/

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Mary James sits down with Parlin Meyer, Managing Principal of BrightBuilt Home, and Chris Lee, Head of Design & Development at Backyard ADUs, for a deep dive into the growing world of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Together, they explore how prefabrication, modular construction, and progressive policy shifts are reshaping the housing landscape in the Northeast and beyond. From multigenerational living to zoning reforms and cost challenges, Parlin and Chris share insights from the front lines of ADU design and delivery—what's working, what's not, and where this crucial housing type is headed.https://www.brightbuilthome.com/https://backyardadus.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox and Mary James talk with Lisette Wong and Jack Esterson of Think! Architecture & Design to explore the award-winning Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Plaza project. Learn how this project blends community heritage with Passive House sustainability in Harlem. Lisette and Jack share their journey to Passive House, the project's innovative design features—including advanced HVAC, daylighting with large operable skylights, green roofs, and PV systems—and the deep community impact of creating year-round space for market vendors and residents alike.https://www.think-arc.com/Reimagine Buildings '25 https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-25Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this eighth episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Ed May (bldgtyp), Nakita Reed (Quinn Evans), Tessa Bradley (Artisans Group), Bev Craig (MassCEC), Mike Steffen (Walsh Construction), Lisa White (Co-Executive Director of Phius), and Jonsara Ruth and Allison Mears (leaders of Healthy Materials Lab).Quotes:Jonsara Ruth: "If everybody knows a little bit more, we actually have the ability to steer things in the right direction."Alison Mears:"We have to be hopeful. We have to be vigilant. And we have to use our practice for good."Ed May:"These things are really hard to disentangle... they work together as a whole system."Nakita Reed: "We're on the same team, but here's what we're trying to go forward."Tessa Bradley:"You're making the rules of your own game."Bev Craig:"The more educated and experienced they were, the lower the premium was."Mike Steffen:"We're doing it to create room in the budgets… to pull the better buildings off."Lisa White:"We're trying to be… a shield and a sword against climate change."The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.com

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Mary James and Jay Fox chat with Sarah Lewis, Research and Policy Director at the Passive House Trust. They explore Scotland's groundbreaking push toward mandatory Passive House standards for new buildings.  Sarah dives into the motivations behind the proposed legislation, lessons from Germany and Brussels, and the vital role of embodied carbon. She also explores the practical implications—from fuel poverty and ventilation standards to supply chain readiness and the challenge of scaling EnerPHit retrofits. With clarity and passion, Sarah unpacks how policy can drive meaningful change in the built environment.https://www.passivhaustrust.org.uk/

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler-Welsh talks with Sharon Robinson of Smart Living Spaces. Sharon shares her journey from standard design work to advocating for high-performance, affordable housing. She talks about how rethinking client communication, redefining “standard plans,” and focusing on building science fundamentals like heat recovery, passive design, and smart construction systems can shift the industry.https://www.smartlivingspaces.nz/Reimagine Buildings '25 https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-25Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Architect Nat Madson and structural engineer Lauren Piepho of HGA join us to talk about Barry Mills Hall and the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies—Bowdoin College's first mass timber buildings and the first of their kind in Maine. They share the story behind the design and construction, from early ideas sparked by the college's pine-filled campus and carbon neutrality goals, to navigating mass timber systems, embodied carbon, and the buildings' architectural dialogue with campus history.Barry Mills Hall and the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies: https://hga.com/projects/bowdoin-college-barry-mills-hall-and-center-for-arctic-studies/Bowdoin College's case study of the project: https://www.bowdoin.edu/news/2020/pdf/furthering-mass-timber-construction---hga---consigli---bowdoin-college-22.pdfThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the hosts Mary James and Jay Fox sit down with Vincent Bergeron, an architect with Equipe A Architects in Quebec, to explore The Monarch—a groundbreaking social housing project in Sherbrooke. With 134 units guaranteed affordable for 35 years, this high-rise development is notable not only for its scale but for its ambitious pivot toward Passive House principles. Van shares how a tight timeline, a challenging site, and a collaborative team led to innovative choices in prefabrication, envelope design, and energy efficiency. Hear how a late-stage decision to pursue Passive House certification helped shape a healthier, more resilient living environment for low-income families, all while keeping costs in check.https://equipea.ca/

In this seventh episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Jessica Grove Smith (Joint Managing Director of Passive House Institute), Mark Attard, Rainger Pinney, John Loercher, Galen Staengl, Mike Fowler, Cait Eggers, Sean Velez, Nidhi Shaw, and Lloyd Alter.Quotes:"Walking off the ferry in Seattle and ashes falling out of the sky—that changes your perspective. The same thing with the heat dome and with COVID. These events over the last seven to eight years have reshaped how I think and approach design and architecture, and now my focus is on resilience." — Mike Fowler"If you touch any one single component, make sure you go all the way. That's the only way you're going to future-proof your building and have a long-lasting carbon emission impact." — Jessica Grove-Smith"It's very clear that what typologies get built follow where there's grant money. Developers are happy to build anything as long as it comes with a little extra funding—that's a powerful lever we can use to shape the built environment." — Rainger Pinney"In Passive House buildings, humidity changes very slowly. That just observation applies in any climate—you're less affected because the air isn't running through your building like it does in most buildings." — Galen Staengl"We should be retrofitting schools rather than demolishing them. Roofs, windows, and wall cladding can be replaced; we don't need to demolish the whole school to make it better." — Nidhi ShahThe Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast we are joined by Mark Anderson a Registered Master Builder, Licensed Building Practitioner, and Certified Passive House Tradesperson based in Wanaka, New Zealand. Mark founded MA Building in 2013, driven by a commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation in residential construction. Growing up on building sites alongside his father, Mark developed a deep respect for the trade, which he now channels into creating high-performance, architecturally designed homes. His passion for Passive House principles stems from a desire to build healthier, more energy-efficient homes for future generations. Connect with Mark Anderson:Website: mabuilding.co.nzInstagram: @mabuilding_wanakaPHINZ Directory: M A Building WanakaResources Mentioned:MA Building Blog: Why I Chose Passive Homes: The Real StoryPassive House Institute New Zealand: passivehouse.nz

This week on the Passive House Podcast, Jay and Mary welcome Shannon Pendleton, of Source 2050 and Sanderson Sustainable Design, to share her insights from the massive International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas. From electrification trends to American-made high-performance windows, Shannon breaks down where the building industry is headed and how Source 2050 fits into the evolving landscape of sustainable building.Source 2050 - https://source2050.com/What is Good Wood?(article) - https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/what-is-good-wood-form-follows-forestRB25 - https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-2

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James and Jay Fox dive into passive leisure centers and indoor pool design with Jessica Grove-Smith, Senior Scientist and Joint Managing Director of the Passive House Institute. Jessica shares the story of how PHI began exploring high-humidity building typologies, the unique challenges of designing ultra-efficient recreation centers, and the lessons learned from pioneering projects in Germany and the UK—like the groundbreaking St. Sidwell's Point. From airtightness to evaporation reduction, this is Passive House design at its most dynamic.https://passivehouse.com/

In this sixth episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Carmel Pratt (Massive Passive AMA); Graham Irwin and Silas Patlove (Duck Curve Friday AMA); Lloyd Alter (Sufficiency First AMA); Sara Kudra, Bev Craig, Rainger Pinney, Kristof Irwin, and Alexander Gard-Murray (BuildingEnergy Boston Recap); Ilka Cassidy and Greg Leskien (PH Panelization AMA); and Andrew Peel (Passive House Modeling AMA). The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James sits down with Hugh Pearce, architect and Passive House lead at the UK-based firm Architype. Known for trailblazing sustainable educational design, Architype is behind landmark projects like the UK's first Passive House secondary school. Hugh shares insights into the London Docks Secondary School—an ambitious, airtight, biodiversity-rich oasis in the heart of London's urban density. Tune in for a deep dive into Passive House design for schools.https://www.architype.co.uk/

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka is at McGill University for the Reconstruct Workshop, a workshop bringing together students, researchers, and industry leaders to tackle the future of deep energy retrofits. Ilka sits down with emerging voices from architecture and engineering to unpack prefab innovation, the Single Integrated Manufacturing (SIM) model, and real-world pilot projects aimed at decarbonizing existing buildings. It's a behind-the-scenes look at how the next generation is shaping retrofit strategies that are scalable, sustainable, and socially impactful.https://aeechair.research.mcgill.ca/en/initiatives/the-reconstruct-initiative

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Matthew Cutler-Welsh sits down with Joseph Lyth an Associate Registered Architect, Certified Passive House Designer based in New Zealand. Joesph walks Matthew through his decision to build a passive house to create a healthier environment for his family.  Believing that healthier, lower energy and affordable buildings are possible for everyone in New Zealand, at standard budgets. Lower Saddle Passive House Tāhekeroa: https://nzgbc.org.nz/case-studies/lower-saddle-passive-house-t%C4%81hekeroa

In this special episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka Cassidy is joined by Kristoff Irwin of Positive Energy at NESEA's BuildingEnergy Boston '25.Ilka and Kristoff are joined by the following inspiring speakers and organizers of NESEA 25:Jacob Deva Racusin, New Frameworks Natural Design/BuildAndrew Himes, Carbon Leadership ForumLaura Bailey, Vermont Council On Rural DevelopmentHeather Ferrell, Prism Design LabThey dive in to the conferences main take aways, lessons learned, and calls to action.Speaker links:https://www.newframeworks.com/https://carbonleadershipforum.org/https://www.vtrural.org/https://www.prismdesignlab.org/https://positiveenergy.pro/https://positiveenergy.pro/building-science-podcastIlkas call to action resources:https://www.echo-project.info/https://www.greencommons.net/peer-networkshttps://www.climateheritage.org/https://www.mep2040.org/https://nesea.org/about-buildingenergy-bottom-lineshttp://massdesigngroup.org/work/research/bio-based-materials-collectivehttps://www.buildersforclimateaction.org/https://se2050.org/

In this fifth episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Ryan Abendroth (how to get into PH consulting), Michael Ingui (how to sell Passive Hosue), Kristof Irwin (paradigms in high performance building), and Tom Bassett-Dilley (retrofits and embodied carbon).The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James and Jay Fox sit down with Tonje Wold-Switzer, Executive Director of the Santa Cruz County Long Term Recovery Group. Tonje shares her personal journey of losing her home, navigating the recovery process, and advocating for fire-resilient, sustainable rebuilding solutions—including Passive House design. Tune in for insights on disaster response,  and how communities can prepare for future wildfires.How This Family Rebuilt Their Home Stronger after Wild Fire video: https://youtu.be/becjK7WMNXASanta Cruz County Long Term Recovery Group: https://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/OR3/Recovery/LongTermRecoveryGroup.aspx

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we welcome Barry Cope, Group Managing Director of the Building Compliance Testers Association (BCTA). Barry shares insights into airtightness testing, certification, and how the UK became a leader in 100% blower door testing for new buildings. He discusses the role of ATTMA, the evolution of the industry, and how airtightness impacts building performance, moisture control, and energy efficiency. The Building Performance Hub: https://www.bcta.group/tbph/The Building Performance Hub Podcast: https://www.bcta.group/tbph/tbph-podcasts/

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler-Welsh sits down with Kirstie Wulf of Shelter Building Design. Based in Australia's Blue Mountains, Kirstie shares how she built her own hempcrete home, the benefits of this natural material, and how it stands up to fire, floods, and extreme weather. If you're curious about sustainable building, passive house principles, or just love a great career change story, this one's for you!https://shelterbuildingdesign.com.au/

In this fourth episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Andrew Michler (fire hardening), Tim Lock (designing beyond Passive House), Ed May (modeling), and Michelle Jacobson and Maria Lomanto (healthy interiors).The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we sit down with Chef Chris Galarza—founder of Forward Dining Solutions, co-founder of EcoChef, and author of Understanding the Green Industrial Revolution—to explore the powerful intersection of food, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Chris shares his journey from skeptic to advocate for kitchen electrification, highlighting how induction cooking transforms commercial kitchens by improving air quality, reducing costs, and boosting efficiency. We dive into his groundbreaking cooking demonstration for the U.S. Congress, the hidden economics of electrified kitchens, and how chefs can lead the charge toward a more responsible and sustainable future.https://forwarddiningsolutions.com/ecochef

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James and Ilka Cassidy sit down with Michael Marsh, Principal of Sidekick Architecture in Los Angeles. Michael shares his journey into architecture and Passive House design, discusses the challenges of promoting energy efficiency in California's mild climate, and explores the intersection of fire-resistant construction and sustainable building. From innovative ADUs to rebuilding fire-damaged homes, Michael provides insights on designing for the future while balancing aesthetics, cost, and performance.https://sidekickarchitects.com/home-1

In this third episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Skylar Swinford (modeling); Ed May, Lois Arena, and Marine Sanchez (Passive House consulting); and Mary James and Steve Quarles (fire resilience).The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we chat with Nick Sowden of Sowden Building Solutions about the electrification of homes in Sydney, the shift away from gas, and deep energy retrofits. Nick shares insights on insulation upgrades, solar adoption, and how heritage homes can be transformed into high-performance, energy-efficient spaces. Plus, we discuss Australia's growing incentives for electrification and why the transition to clean energy is becoming easier than ever.https://www.sowdenbuildingsolutions.com.au/

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka Cassidy and Mary James sit down for part 2 of their deconstruction roundtable with Megan Stringer of Holmes, Eric Law of Urban Machine, and Katrina Lund & Imani Hamilton of Ramboll.In Part 2 of our series, we dive deeper into the role of structural engineering in deconstruction and material reuse. They discuss overcoming industry hesitations, innovative connection technologies, and real-world applications of design for deconstruction. And also explore Urban Machine's groundbreaking robotics, which automate lumber reclamation, making reused materials more accessible and cost-competitive.https://www.ramboll.com/https://www.holmes.us/https://urbanmachine.build/https://www.allforreuse.org/ecosystem-map

In this second episode of The Reimagine Edit series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Dan Whitmore of Blackbird Builders and Sara Bayer of Magnusson Architecture and Planning.The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this bonus episode of the Passive House Podcast, Zack introduces Reimagine Buildings News, our sister podcast and the official podcast of the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://www.reimaginebuildings.com/ Like what you hear? Please subscribe to Reimagine Buildings News on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reimagine-buildings-news/id1792737989 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pLTH73E07EZl8C8OrwIT3 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/25040100-6ca2-46ca-bd1c-7ec4cf7c6e32/reimagine-buildings-news YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPa_Ba3MrSNvo7SHFzysnpHeKfoA4GjU7 Is your favorite platform not listed above? Search for the Reimagine Buildings News channel and you'll likely find it. It's everywhere!Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka Cassidy and Mary James sit down for a deconstruction roundtable with Megan Stringer of Holmes, Eric Law of Urban Machine, and Katrina Lund & Imani Hamilton of Ramboll.In Part one of this series we dive into the transformative potential of deconstruction and circular economy practices in the building industry. Exploring designing for adaptability, reclaiming valuable materials like old-growth lumber, and leveraging new technologies to reduce embodied carbon. From regulations to real-world case studies, discover how these innovations are driving sustainability, economic benefits, and a new era for the built environment.https://www.ramboll.com/https://www.holmes.us/https://urbanmachine.build/https://www.allforreuse.org/ecosystem-mapThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode, of the Passive House Podcast Matthew Cutler Welsh chats with Trent Clark of Red Cedar Constructions about the evolution of his Sydney-based construction business and its focus on sustainable building practices. Trent shares his journey into Passive House design, the challenges and successes of pioneering projects like the Thornleigh house, and the growing trend toward electrification and energy-efficient homes in Australia. Tune in to hear how Red Cedar Constructions is shaping the future of green building while celebrating two decades of innovation.https://www.redcedarconstructions.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast host Mary James talks with Chris Swinburn, director of Beyond Carbon, about the complexities of applying Passive House principles to large-scale and commercial buildings. Discover how Beyond Carbon became a leader in sustainable design, tackling projects like the largest Passive House development in the UK—a student accommodation complex at UWE Bristol. From overcoming challenges in mechanical systems to addressing overheating risks and future-proofing against climate change, this episode dives deep into practical solutions for all-electric buildings.https://www.beyondcarbon.uk/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox speaks with Raphael Vibert, Passive House Certifier and Senior Designer at Herz Lang, about the Museum of Bavarian History in Regensburg, Germany. Discover how this stunning riverside museum became the largest Passive House-certified museum in the world, the unique challenges of balancing artifact preservation with energy efficiency, and the innovative systems that make it a landmark of sustainable design.https://www.museum.bayern/en/museum.htmlhttps://www.herz-lang.de/de/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

This week on the Passive House Podcast Mary Jame sat down withSean Conta, founder of Targa Homes. Sean shares his journey from green building certification to starting his own company in 2018, focusing on creating sustainable, high-performance homes in the Pacific Northwest. Discover how Sean educates clients about Passive House principles, his experience using innovative materials like cork and wood fiberboard for insulation, and the practicalities of reducing embodied carbon in construction. From tackling wildfire resilience to exploring the benefits of airtight construction and indoor air quality, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone passionate about sustainable building.Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we sit down with Ramune Bartuskaite, architect and CEO of Spec Matters. Originally from Lithuania and now based in Philadelphia, Ramune shares her inspiring journey through architecture, from her academic experiences at Miami University, Penn, and international studies in Copenhagen and London, to founding her own platform dedicated to healthier materials. She shares insights on how architects can select better materials, advocate for healthier environments, and the importance of community-driven initiatives. https://specmatters.com/ https://www.xvadesign.com/https://appliedresearchanddesign.com/product/women-rebuildThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this special component spotlight episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka Cassidy chats with Source 2050 Co-founders Michael Ingui and John Knapp and Passive House expert Shannon Pendleton. They discuss how Source 2050 simplifies sourcing innovative, sustainable products, bridging design and construction to accelerate better building practices. Whether you're an architect, builder, or consultant, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your practice and accelerate sustainable construction.https://source2050.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox and Mary James talk with Crystal Ng, Director of Sustainability at Curtis + Ginsberg. Crystal discusses her first-hand experiences with Passive House projects, the future of geothermal and domestic hot water systems, and the innovative strategies her team is employing to achieve net-zero goals.https://www.cplusga.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Zack Semke talks with Chris Magwood of RMI. Chris shares his journey from running a design-build company and school in Ontario to becoming a leading voice in embodied carbon and sustainable building practices. The conversation delves into the evolution of green building, the importance of upfront carbon reduction, and the potential of biomaterials to achieve net-zero carbon construction. Chris also highlights tools, research, and insights for advancing climate-positive solutions in residential building.https://rmi.org/https://www.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, co-host Ilka Cassidy sits down with Chelsey Effinger from GO Logic, Angie Horner and Abby Xerri of Quantum Passivhaus, and Jonah Stanford from B.Public Prefab to explore the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) process. Together, they discuss the critical intersection of architectural design, energy modeling, and panelized construction. From 3D modeling software to effective collaboration with architects and manufacturers, this conversation unveils the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future of high-performance building systems.https://www.gologic.us/https://www.bpublicprefab.com/https://www.quantumpassivhaus.com/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-biomaterialshttps://www.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Matthew Cutler-Welsh talks with Stephan Mausli, co-owner of Hector Egger New Zealand. Stephan reflects on adapting to the New Zealand housing industry and redefining construction practices. Sharing the stark contrasts between European and New Zealand building standards, the challenges of prefabrication in a developing market, and his passion for delivering high-quality, sustainable housing solutions. https://www.hector-egger.ch/de/he-nzhttps://www.reimaginebuildings.com/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-biomaterialsThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

 In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Mary James talks with David Komet about the journey of turning an underutilized urban site into a state-of-the-art pickleball facility designed with sustainability, community value, and innovative engineering at its core.   David shares how a chance proposal led to a pivot from residential development to creating a Passive House-compliant sports venue. From optimizing land use near highways to integrating materials like AAC panels for thermal mass, we dive into the challenges and benefits of high-performance building design.https://www.reimaginebuildings.com/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-biomaterialsThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we sit down with James Clarke, General Manager of NZSIP, to explore his journey from high-end construction in London to leading sustainable building innovations in New Zealand. James shares his passion for creating healthier, more resilient homes after a personal encounter with New Zealand's housing challenges. Discover how Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) offer energy efficiency, airtightness, and superior insulation, making them an ideal choice for sustainable and Passive House construction. https://nzsip.co.nz/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James and Ilka Cassidy talk with Joanna Lockhart of Tetra Tech Europe. As the Associate Director of Architecture, Joanna leads a specialized team focused on net zero, whole-life carbon, and circular building approaches. She shares her experience in designing sustainable, low-carbon buildings for the UK's Ministry of Defense, navigating complex carbon targets, and leveraging circular economy principles.Tetra Tech Europe https://www.tetratecheurope.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this special component episode of the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler-Welsh interviews Hugh Whiriskey of Partel. Hugh shares insights into Partel's approach to energy-efficient building, including updates on their popular ExoPerm 250 membrane and the company's move towards more sustainable, durable building solutions. They also dive into the importance of environmental product declarations (EPDs), the evolving construction landscape in Ireland, and Partel's expanding influence across North America. Partel - https://www.partel.co.uk/Building Performance Interactive https://www.partel.co.uk/media_library_category/building-performance-interactive-passive-house-accel...Partel Component Spotlightshttps://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/passive-house-component-spotlight-partelhttps://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/partel-component-spotlight-or-weather-tightness-and-pro...Partel on the Passive House Podcasthttps://passivehouseaccelerator.com/podcast/special-passive-house-component-episode-hugh-whiriskey-o...Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Lloyd Alter shares stories from his recent trip to New Zealand. We dive into the "missed opportunities" he saw in Christchurch's post-earthquake rebuild and the broader evolution of Passive House standards. Lloyd discusses the impact of thoughtful building design, sufficiency in architecture, and what can be learned from New Zealand's unique challenges in sustainable housing.https://newsociety.com/book/the-story-of-upfront-carbon/https://www.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

 In this Component Spotlight episode of the Passive House Podcast, co-host Jay Fox sits down with Aaron Frazier from Longboard to dive into innovative cladding solutions, with a special focus on the Hitch System. Discover how Longboard's extruded aluminum products, from tongue-and-groove siding to their advanced cladding attachment systems, enhance durability, reduce embodied carbon, and improve energy efficiency. Aaron shares insights into Longboard's manufacturing process, the evolution of the Hitch System, and its significant role in passive house design. Tune in for a deep dive into modern, high-performance building solutions!Longboard: https://longboardproducts.com/Hitch: https://longboardproducts.com/exterior-products/cladding-attachment-systems/hitch-systemThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

 In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jesse Hunt of Emergent Development joins the podcast to share his journey of developing Houston's first Passive House. He discusses his passion for passive building and the how taking the leap to develop his own project has changed everything for him.https://www.emergentdev.co/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

This week on the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler-Welsh takes us inside PHINZ 2024 for insightful conversations with Alex Slater, Delia Bellaby, Dr. Emina Kristina Petrovic, Lloyd Alter, and Nikki Kruger. Together, they explore the future of sustainable architecture, from the health impacts of building materials to the intricacies of the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), and the recent updates to New Zealand's earth building standards. Join us for an engaging discussion on energy efficiency, climate-responsive design, and the innovations driving a greener built environmentAlex Slater: https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/podcast/passive-house-podcast-ep-76-alex-slater-shared-space-architecturehttps://passivehouseaccelerator.com/podcast/196-passive-house-humility-with-alex-slaterhttps://sharedspacearchitecture.com.au/https://www.nathers.gov.au/Delia Bellaby:https://www.earthbuilding.org.nz/http://www.designmake.co.nz/https://www.standards.govt.nz/shop/nzs-42982020Dr. Emina Kristina Petrovic:https://people.wgtn.ac.nz/emina.petrovicLloyd Alter:https://lloydalter.substack.com/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/passive-house-weekly-march-28-2022https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/living-the-1-5-degree-lifestyle-or-a-discussion-with-lloyd-alterhttps://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/green-zoning-accelerating-smart-growth-in-single-family-zonesNikki Kruger:https://passivehouse.nz/about/our-team/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this special component spotlight episode of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke caught up with Adam White, CEO and co-founder of Intelligent Membranes. Adam shares exciting updates on the company's innovative Passive Purple products, their recent rebranding Net Zero Heroes, and global expansion. Discover how Intelligent Membranes is revolutionizing zero-carbon building with their eco-friendly, liquid-applied membranes. This episode is packed with insights for Passive House enthusiasts and professionals alike!https://www.intelligentmembranes.com/Net Zero Hero trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYyioe1ixEAIntelligent Membrane Component Spotlight - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsSxWSCVzAIThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Co-host  Zack Semke sits down with James Ortega, the Certification Program Director at Phius. James shares insights on the evolving role of Phius, the shift from small-scale homes to larger multifamily and high-rise buildings, and the exponential growth of certified square footage in passive buildings. He also dives into the upcoming Phius Pro Forum in Providence, Rhode Island, and explore the new Phius Revive standard, which focuses on resilient retrofit projects. This episode is packed with valuable information for passive building practitioners and anyone interested in sustainable construction.https://www.phius.org/https://www.phius.org/browse-all-events/phius-pro-forum-2024https://www.phius.org/phius-revive-2024Come hear from Lisa White of Phius at Reimagine Buildings: How To Decarbhttps://events.ringcentral.com/events/reimagine-buildings-decarb-connect-ec086e08-2a23-4cca-bf0f-015...Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, co-host Zack Semke is joined by Kim Davis, Programs Manager, and Michael Ingui, Founder of Passive House Accelerator. The team dives into exciting new developments at the Accelerator, from survey-driven programming changes to a sneak peek of the upcoming Reimagined Buildings Collective. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how they're shaping the future of zero-carbon building through collaborative community events, conferences, and practical insights from top industry experts.Join us October 18th for Reimagine Buildings: How To DecarbThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.