Habit Studio

Deep retrofit and deep energy retrofit aren't the same. Deep retrofit is a comprehensive building renovation aimed at enhancing overall performance, including energy efficiency, comfort, and resilience. Deep energy retrofit is a subset of deep retrofit, focused specifically on achieving significant energy savings, with the goal of drastically reducing energy consumption. Know the difference! Considering a retrofit? Let us help you choose the right approach for your building. https://ow.ly/XYxK50V6a4p #TheReCoverInitiative #DeepRetrofit #DeepEnergyRetrofit #BuildingSustainably

This week's temperatures have us thinking that folks may be interested in seeing our go-to wall assembly. Every Passive House is designed with an energy model, where we tailor the performance to suit the building location and geometry, but this diagram shows our starting point.  We start with a double stud wall assembly insulated with dense packed cellulose insulation. By varying the space between the two rows of studs the effective R value can be modified.  Outside of the stud wall is no different than how we build a code minimum wall, with sheathing, a water-resistive barrier (WRB) membrane, a ventilation cavity and cladding.  Inside of the insulation a continuous 'smart' vapour barrier membrane with variable permeability is installed, so if any moisture ever gets in, it has a way to escape. This membrane is also the primary air barrier. Inside of that we have a service cavity to run wires and pipes, and finally drywall.  We have used a few wall assemblies in our projects, but several years back our friends at Bentley Built Homes convinced us that this approach is the most economical way to build super-insulated walls in our region.  #Habitstudio #designforthesenses #passivehouse #coldsnap #highperformancebuilding #energyefficiency #keeptheheatinside #sustainabledesign #buildingscience 

If you enjoyed the photos of Shorebird, we are happy to share that all of the details on this beautiful home are now live on our website.  builder: Up Country Builders photos: Matthew Rodgers Photography staged by Attica

Who doesn't love starting off the year with an organized pantry?  #habitstudio #designforthesenses #pantry #customhome #nesting

Trusting that 2025 brings connection, creativity, collaboration and compassion. Cheers Friends 🫶 #habitstudio #habitnewyear #happynewyear

Introducing Shorebird. Perched on the coast of Nova Scotia's Minas Basin, Shorebird is a 3000 square foot Passive House designed for solo retreats, extended family gatherings, and everything in between. Shorebird's open concept living area opens onto gardens and terraces on three sides, providing comfortable spaces to enjoy nature with shelter from strong winds and summer heat. The home features 3 bedrooms, a screened in porch and a flexible lounge space for yoga, games, tv watching and sleeping bunks for younger family members. builder: Up Country Builders photos: Matthew Rodgers Photography staged by Attica #habitstudio #designforthesenses #passivehouse #sustainabledesign #annapolisvalley #beachhouse #customhome #oceanfronthome #upcountrybuilders

Curious about Passive House economics? Liminal, which is slightly shy of the Passive House targets, is projected to use 79% less heating energy and 62% less total energy, than a code minimum home of the same design.  We use the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) energy modelling software to analyze and optimize building performance and to inform design decisions. We use PHPP to fine tune details like the orientation of the home on the site and to compare specs from different window and door suppliers and ventilation equipment.   Costs noted are based on the current electrical rates in Nova Scotia and don't account for costs from the propane fireplace installed as a backup heat source.  #habitstudio #designforthesenses #passivehouse #customhome #lowenergybuilding #economics

More than ready for the days to start getting longer again. #solstice 

Our office is now closed for our team to take some much needed R&R. During this festive season, we hope you also find time for rest, reflection, and connection with those who matter most. Warmest wishes from the Habit team! #seeyouin2025 #habitstudio #designforthesenses #holidays

At 2300 square feet, Liminal features two bedrooms, two baths, an office, den and generous pantry in addition to its open concept living-dining-kitchen. This layout fits all of this and provides a sense of seclusion for its private spaces, despite using very little floor area for circulation.   Avoiding wasted space is key in designing an environmentally responsible home.  #habitstudio #designforthesenses #passivehouse #lowcarbonhome #customhome #halifaxnovascotia #easternshorenovascotia