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Growing up in Europe, Timo Bleeker was used to living in buildings with a stable indoor climate, generally around a comfortable range between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. When he arrived in Perth, Western Australia, he was surprised how hot the houses were in summer and how cold there were in winter. Now through his practice Idealings Architecture, Timo is spreading the concept of Passive House and helping people realise that houses can and should be comfortable all year round, no matter what the climate.
NatHERS and NCC
Timo points out that the Australian National Construction Code (NCC) and even NatHERS ratings don’t necessarily produce healthy or comfortable homes. As he’s experienced, new houses built to the NCC minimum standard can still go as low as 12 degrees Celsius (54 deg F) inside during winter and reach summer temperatures of up to 38 degrees Celsius (100 deg F).
Passive House
Timo grew up in Germany and was therefore aware of Passive House, but when he trained as an Architect, Passive House wasn’t seen as something special. Avoiding thermal bridges, including high levels of insulation, incorporating airtightness and heat recovery ventilation are all just standard practice in Germany.
The Way We Do Things
Part of Timo’s early experience in the Australian building industry was doing site supervision. He recalls his frustration when suggesting some Passive House strategies, only to be told, “that’s not the way we do things here”. This resistance to change was part of Timo’s motivation for establishing Idealings Architecture.
Timo is starting to see a change in the industry, especially from younger professionals some of whom are asking good questions about how to do things better.
Idealings Architecture
Idealings Architecture is based in Fremantle, Western Australia and serves Perth and the Southwest of the state. Run by Timo and Najwa Bleeker, the aim of Idealings is to help future homeowners and organisations to create healthy, comfortable, energy-efficient and sustainable buildings.
Timo Bleeker is a Certified Passive House Designer. Check out their website for any upcoming free Passive House information events.
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