Asia-Specific Passive House: Designing for Warm and Humid Climates

Who We Are & What We Do

We are specialists in environmentally sustainable architecture, crafting high-performance, energy-efficient building designs that integrate sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics. Our expertise extends across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments in Asia’s warm and humid regions. We work with:

• Homeowners seeking cost-effective cooling solutions and superior indoor air quality.

• Developers committed to low-carbon, net-zero residential and commercial projects.

• Businesses aiming to optimize energy efficiency in office spaces and commercial developments.

Each of our projects aligns with Passive House standards, ensuring reduced energy consumption and enhanced occupant comfort while meeting the demands of Asia’s climate.

Key Passive House Strategies for Warm & Humid Climates

1. Smart Insulation & Heat Reflection

In warm climates, preventing heat absorption is as critical as maintaining indoor cooling. Light-colored, reflective roofing and façade materials significantly deflect solar radiation, minimizing heat buildup inside the building. Using high-performance insulation materials like wood fiber and cellulose, which are breathable and moisture-regulating, enhances temperature control while preventing condensation issues.

Scientific studies have shown that reflective roofing can reduce rooftop temperatures by up to 50°F (27°C) compared to dark-colored materials, leading to energy savings of 20-30% on cooling costs.

2. Shading & Natural Ventilation

Direct exposure to the sun can significantly increase cooling loads, making strategic shading a crucial design element in Passive House projects. Implementing overhangs, pergolas, brise soleil, and green facades helps reduce indoor heat gain, limiting the reliance on air conditioning.

Additionally, passive cooling techniques such as cross-ventilation and stack ventilation allow warm air to escape while drawing in cooler air, reducing energy consumption for mechanical cooling. Smartly placed windows and ventilation openings optimize natural airflow, maintaining comfortable indoor conditions year-round.

3. Humidity Control & High-Performance Windows

Excessive humidity not only causes discomfort but also promotes mold growth and structural deterioration. Incorporating Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) systems efficiently regulates indoor moisture levels while ensuring fresh air circulation. ERVs are particularly beneficial in humid climates, as they recover up to 80% of indoor cooling energy, reducing the overall cooling demand.

High-performance windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and UV protection further enhance energy efficiency by limiting heat gain while allowing ample natural daylight. Studies indicate that Low-E glazing can reduce solar heat gain by 35-50%, significantly improving indoor thermal comfort without excessive air conditioning.