The phrase ‘Home Go Home’ could mean various things depending on the context. For some, it might simply be figuring out ways to spend more time at home, creating a space that reflects their personality and needs. For others, it signifies the concept of a home being self-sufficient, autonomous in its systems and energy-efficient. This is where the concept of passive house design starts to merge with ‘Home Go Home’.
In architecture, a passive house is a voluntary standard for energy efficiency that leads to ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling. The term ‘passive’ signifies that the majority of the home’s heating requirement is satisfied by ‘passive’ heat sources, such as sunlight, the occupants, and household appliances. Rather than relying mainly on active heating systems, the design employs strategies like superior insulation, properly oriented windows that exploit solar gains, and heat recovery ventilation, among others.
A home designed according to the principles of passive house design is economical, comfortable, environmentally-friendly, and sustainable. It is an excellent manifestation of the ‘Home Go Home’ concept, enabling the house to ‘go home’ to its primary function of providing a comfortable dwelling place for its inhabitants with minimal environmental impact.
The integration of passive design measures significantly reduces heating and cooling needs, which typically account for up to 50% of energy use in residential buildings. Savings on energy bills and the resultant lower carbon footprint give homeowners a greater sense of independence and control – essential aspects considering the growing focus on green living and sustainability in the 21st century.
Furthermore, in the context of infrequent but heavy energy use periods, such as extreme cold or heatwaves, passive homes ensure comfort and security. The design measures, including optimal insulation and airtightness, help maintain a steady indoor temperature. So, homeowners can enjoy a cozy winter day or a cool summer day without worrying about escalating energy costs or system failures. Even in the event of power outages, passive houses retain heat more efficiently than conventional homes, contributing to their resilience and inhabitants’ peace of mind.
The concept of passive house design in a ‘Home Go Home’ context has significant implications for future urban and rural development. It promotes a distinct “home-centric” lifestyle – home as a safe haven, a sustainable ecosystem, and an autonomous entity. Embracing this will be a big leap towards low-carbon living and a sustainable future.
Here, ‘Home Go Home’ is seen as a lifestyle shift, where homes become a crucial component of sustainable living. The principles of design, environmental consciousness, and advanced technology are seamlessly blended to provide a living space that manages its energy capabilities.
Consequently, the ‘Home Go Home’ concept extends beyond just residential building designs. It urges us to rethink our urban landscapes and the way we live, encouraging a life that reduces the environmental footprint and propels us towards a sustainable future. Therefore, the ‘Home Go Home’ principle, coupled with the passive house design, is not a mere architectural phenomenon but a societal shift towards green living and sustainability.