Why isn't passive house growing?

"The message that passive house is better, just isn't reaching people."

We explore what actually happens when passive house ambitions meet the realities of Australian building sites - from the builder's perspective, the architect's challenges, and the client's concerns.

Today we’re discussing what it means to design and build a passive house with Sven Maxa from Maxa Designs: the learning curves, cost considerations, and collaboration required to bridge the gap between high-performance building theory and practical execution. We break down what changes for builders tackling their first passive house spec, how architects balance performance with design, and what clients need to know before committing to passive house principles.

This isn't about chasing certification badges - it's about understanding whether passive house standards can improve building performance without making life harder for everyone involved.

Whether you're a builder considering your first passive house project, an architect integrating performance requirements, or a homeowner exploring energy-efficient building options, this conversation reveals the real-world challenges and opportunities of passive house construction in Australia.

👇 CHAPTER MARKERS 👇

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

01:54 Discussion on Passive House Adoption in Australia

02:40 Maxa Design's Experience with Passive House

03:19 Global Adoption of Passive House Standards

05:36 Challenges in Marketing Passive House

07:46 Cost Analysis and Financial Considerations

14:55 Personal Experiences with Passive House

26:00 The Importance of Certification and Quality Assurance

29:39 Outdated Building Codes and Industry Challenges

31:13 The Cost and Value of Certification

32:56 Integrating Certification Without Client Awareness

34:12 Design Documentation and Additional Costs

38:55 Real-World Examples and Feasibility Challenges

41:51 The Importance of Builder Engagement

46:23 Sustainability and Passive House Certification

51:26 Practical Advice for Aspiring Professionals

55:02 Conclusion and Contact Information

LINKS:

Maxa Designs:

https://www.maxadesign.com.au/

Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram: @sanctumhomes

Website: www.yoursanctum.com.au/