The laneway house is a compact suburban dwelling that seamlessly integrates passive design principles with advanced green energy systems to achieve energy self-sufficiency. The design focuses on creating a comfortable and thermally efficient home with minimal environmental impact.

Passive design elements include large north-facing glazed windows that maximize natural light and heat, controlled thermal mass, cross and convection ventilation, and adjustable shading devices. Insulation is thoroughly applied throughout the house—in walls, floors, roof, and even within brick cavities and under in-floor heated topping slabs. The use of double-glazed, low-e glass in all large windows further enhances the home’s energy efficiency.

Complementing these passive strategies are active green energy systems, such as 59 solar panels, two batteries, geothermal heating and cooling, a heat exchanger, and hydronic in-floor heating across all levels of the house. The geothermal system, using the earth as a heat sink, provides a stable 18°C temperature, while excess heat can be dissipated back into the ground. These technologies, combined with the passive design elements, result in a home with an exceptionally low operating carbon footprint and year-round thermal comfort.

The house is oriented northeast/southwest, optimizing northern sun exposure while mitigating heat gain from the western sun and managing cold southerly winds. Strategic placement of insulation, particularly in the west-facing wall, and thoughtful spatial planning, such as positioning bathrooms to buffer heat gain in bedrooms, ensure efficient use of space and energy throughout the year. The laneway house exemplifies how thoughtful design and technology can create a sustainable, comfortable, and energy-efficient urban home.

Photography by Pablo Veiga