· Joseph Little Architects believes in the science of architecture. We love good aesthetic design, but believe too little focus has been given to rigour, to measuring, to control and performance. 'Passive House' is exciting because it is a design movement AND standard with these features at its core.
· There is a danger in the new rush to reduce the energy needed to fuel buildings that Government, construction industry and architects could lose a focus on health. This is why we also emphasise the measurement of moisture and vapour in walls or floors (through simulation) and the centrality of proper, functioning ventilation. Energy and health must be valued equally.
· Joseph Little Architects believes natural building materials used with a good knowledge of building physics make the most healthy, durable buildings with lowest environmental impact. A low energy building that is not also a healthy place to be serves no one.
· In our designs we look for design moves that have multiple benefits: it seems like a litmus test to prove their value.
· We pay special attention to the power of the sun to light, to heat and to overheat. We frequently use the Passive House Institute’s PHPP software to help us ensure that carefully placed windows, sunpipes and rooflights provide a good distribution of light and ‘useful’ solar gain, while using solar shades to protect against the overheating that can otherwise afflict well insulated houses (even those that are not 'Passive Houses').