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Passivhaus in Ourense, Where Tradition Meets Efficiency

News

03/27/2025

Passivhaus in Ourense, Where Tradition Meets Efficiency

The past and present can walk hand in hand with the naturalness of a job well done, born from careful consideration. The teams at Desarrolla have commenced the construction of the Passivhaus in Ourense, which stands as a prime example of this approach to construction and architecture.

The building has been designed following the principles of the Passivhaus standard. A construction model that seeks maximum energy efficiency and environmental sustainability without compromising on comfort.

This philosophy emerged in Germany at the end of the last century based on a foundational principle: to drastically reduce the energy demand of homes. To achieve this, construction relies on strategies such as superior thermal insulation, high-performance joinery, elimination of thermal bridges, air tightness, and ventilation systems with heat recovery.

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PASSIVHAUS IN OURENSE, WHERE TRADITION MEETS EFFICIENCY

DESARROLLA'S TEAMS COMMENCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PASSIVHAUS DWELLING IN OURENSE, WHICH STANDS AS A MODEL OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESPECT FOR THE ARCHITECTURAL TRADITION OF ITS SURROUNDINGS

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Near-zero energy consumption

Thanks to these features, a passive house achieves nearly zero energy consumption by harnessing solar energy and the internal heat generated by its occupants and appliances.The project designed by Hausing Arquitectura stems from the concerns raised by the owners, both environmentally and aesthetically. And it has added an element that gives this Passivhaus in Ourense an even more distinctive feature: the respect for the architectural tradition of the area.To achieve this, the choice has been made for indigenous materials such as wood and slate, which are combined with concrete and finishes in light tones for the interior.The Passivhaus en Ourense is being constructed on a steeply sloped plot, necessitating prior topographical and geotechnical studies to ensure proper implementation. The house is spread across three levels: a ground floor for daily living, a lower level housing parking, garden, and storage areas, and an under-roof floor with a non-habitable residual space.The design has been meticulously planned to maximize solar gain in winter and minimize sun exposure in summer. Thus, the home is oriented 27º southeast, allowing for optimal lighting of the main living spaces.The house also features a large west-facing window that offers spectacular views of the Miño Valley. It also incorporates solar protection measures such as a wedge-shaped overhang, vertical slats, and an exterior screen blind to prevent overheating during the summer months.

The value of thermal comfort

To ensure stable thermal comfort, the home features a mechanical ventilation system with a heat recovery unit. This technology allows for the redistribution of air heated by the sun from areas like the kitchen and bathrooms to cooler zones, optimizing energy efficiency. The need for climate control is minimal and is achieved through a heat battery linked to the ventilation, powered by an aerothermal heat pump that also supplies the domestic hot water.The requirements program for this Passivhaus in Ourense is one of the most comprehensive. Inside, the spatial organization is structured into three main areas. A spacious double-height living-dining room with valley views, connected to the kitchen by sliding wood and polycarbonate doors; the bedroom area, including a suite with a walk-in closet and its own bathroom; and the staircase leading to the residual space under the roof.Outside, the lower level houses a storage room and a versatile covered space, ideal for parking, gardening, or as a leisure area.Ultimately, a project, this Passivhaus in Ourense, whose execution is proving to be particularly satisfying for our teams. Therefore, we do not want to miss the opportunity to thank the trust placed in our work by its promoters and the architectural studio.Visit us at the construction company headquarters in Ourense.