Passive Design: Building Homes That Work With Nature

Skye Jeerayanon
Aug 8
2 min read

At VIKON, we think the best homes don’t just look good, but also feel right. Passive design is about making the most of what nature gives us. By working with the sun, shade, breeze, and the layout of your site, we can create a home that’s naturally comfortable year-round, uses less energy, and feels good to live in.

Let the Sun In, Keep the Heat Out

In winter, you want your home to soak up the sun’s warmth. We do this with well-placed windows that let sunlight in during the day, and with materials that hold onto that heat and slowly release it when the temperature drops at night.

In summer, the goal flips, we use eaves, louvres, verandas, or even well-placed trees to block harsh sun and keep things cool. Cross-breezes and smart ventilation help fresh air move through the house without needing to flick on the air con.

Your Home’s Thermal Shield

The floors, walls, and roof are your home’s protective shell. When designed well, they keep the temperature steady inside; no matter what’s happening outside.

We also watch out for “thermal bridges”: spots where materials like steel or concrete let heat sneak in or out. Where these can’t be avoided, we use thermal breaks to stop that unwanted transfer.

Windows and doors play a big part too. High-quality frames and double glazing can cut heat loss dramatically. In fact, BRANZ estimates that up to half the heat loss in a new home happens through glazing alone, so upgrading here is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Airtight, But Still Fresh

Many older Kiwi homes leak warm air through gaps around windows, doors, and even power points. That’s like heating your backyard in winter. We fix those leaks so your home holds onto its warmth (or coolness) much better.

And while we keep things airtight, we still design for fresh airflow, whether that’s through natural cross-breezes or the stack effect, so the air stays healthy and comfortable without wasting energy.

Why It’s Worth It

Passive design isn’t a fad. It’s a smarter way to build. One that:

Cuts down on power bills
Keeps your home comfortable between 18°C–25°C naturally
Improves air quality and moisture control
Adds long-term value to your property

BRANZ research shows that homes using passive solar design can need up to three times less heating energy than similar homes that don’t, and it doesn’t have to cost more when you plan it in from the start.

How VIKON Brings It Together

From the very first sketches, we think about how your home can work with nature instead of against it. Orientation, window placement, shading, ventilation. Every choice plays a role in comfort, efficiency, and the way your home feels.

Because a home that works with nature doesn’t just perform better, it’s a better place to live.

Resources:

https://linkmix.co/41894479