Tiny Net-Zero Pocket Passiv House
In the heart of Glebe, a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, Anderson Architecture has crafted an exemplar of sustainable urban living: Pocket Passiv. This compact residence, occupying a mere 27-square-meter footprint, redefines the potential of small-scale architecture by harmoniously integrating innovative design with environmental stewardship.
Context & Site Utilisation
Glebe's architectural landscape is characterised by its 19th-century Victorian terrace houses, a testament to Sydney's historical evolution. Within this dense urban fabric, underutilised spaces often present challenges for development. Pocket Passiv transforms one such remnant site—a constrained corner of a terrace house block—into a functional and aesthetically pleasing dwelling. This project not only addresses the spatial limitations inherent in urban environments but also contributes to the ongoing narrative of adaptive reuse in historic neighbourhoods.
Pocket Passiv Design & Architectural Features
The architectural response to the site's constraints is both thoughtful and inventive. Pocket Passiv is a two-story studio that maximises its compact footprint without compromising on comfort or functionality. The lower level features a combined bedroom and study area alongside a striking double-height bathroom, creating an illusion of spaciousness within the modest dimensions. The upper level houses an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, designed to foster a sense of openness and fluidity. Notably, the structure is set nearly one meter below ground level, a strategic decision that preserves sunlight access to adjacent courtyards, thereby respecting the amenity of neighboring properties.
The dwelling's exterior is clad in timber shingles, a material choice that offers both durability and a connection to natural textures. Over time, these shingles will weather gracefully, allowing the building to blend seamlessly with the surrounding architectural fabric. The asymmetrical pitched roof serves a dual purpose: it accommodates concealed solar panels, aligning with the project's sustainability objectives, and it imparts a contemporary aesthetic that complements the historic context of Glebe.
Sustainability & Passivhaus Certification
A cornerstone of Pocket Passiv's design is its adherence to the rigorous Passivhaus Plus standard, making it Australia's smallest certified Passivhaus at 34 square meters. This certification underscores the project's commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Achieving an air tightness result of 0.52 air changes per hour and maintaining annual heating and cooling loads well below 15 kWh/(m²a), the dwelling exemplifies high-performance building practices. The integration of solar panels enables the house to generate as much energy as it consumes, effectively achieving net-zero energy status. This approach not only reduces the environmental footprint but also ensures a comfortable living environment year-round.
Collaborative Process and Project Realization
The success of Pocket Passiv is a testament to the collaborative synergy between the clients, architects, and builders. The clients' vision for a flexible, sustainable urban dwelling was realised through Anderson Architecture's expertise in environmentally conscious design and the builder's commitment to precision and quality. This partnership navigated the complexities of the site and the stringent requirements of Passivhaus certification to deliver a residence that is both innovative and contextually responsive.
Pocket Passiv has garnered acclaim within the architectural community, notably receiving the Sustainable Architecture Award from the Australian Institute of Architects' New South Wales Chapter in 2024. The jury commended the project for its exemplary integration of sustainability and design, highlighting its role as a model for future infill developments in urban settings. This recognition underscores the project's contribution to advancing sustainable architecture practices and its potential to inspire similar initiatives in dense urban landscapes.
Thoughtful Urban Space Design
Pocket Passiv stands as a paradigm of how thoughtful design can transform constrained urban spaces into sustainable and livable environments. By embracing the principles of Passivhaus, respecting the historical context of its locale, and maximising the utility of a compact site, Anderson Architecture has delivered a project that not only meets the immediate needs of its occupants but also serves as an influential example for future urban infill developments. In doing so, Pocket Passiv contributes meaningfully to the discourse on sustainable urban living and the potential of small-scale architecture to effect significant environmental and social benefits.
Architects: Anderson Architecture
Photography: Anderson Architecture