The path to NET ZERO

Ruxandra Palcu Architects focuses on environmental design and sustainability. We strive to minimize the impact of buildings on our natural environment and enhance the health, comfort, and well-being of the occupants. Our practice is dedicated to delivering highly efficient projects and fostering collaborative methods within the construction industry. We work closely with clients to define their sustainability goals and encourage them to consider sustainability strategies from early stages of the design process. Our ultimate mission is to achieve a balance between the social, environmental, and economic value of every build, whilst aiming towards the creation of circular communities.

Net Zero Carbon buildings prioritize the reduction of both operational and embodied carbon. Operational carbon is influenced by the building's energy efficiency, low carbon heating, and renewable energy sources. As Passivhaus designers, Ruxandra Palcu Architects embed ultra low energy design into our practice processes.

Passivhaus is an internationally recognized energy performance standard that focuses on reducing the need for heating and cooling in buildings, while ensuring optimal indoor comfort levels. To achieve this high level of efficiency, a "fabric first" approach is adopted in the design phase through high levels of insulation, exceptional levels of airtightness, and whole-house mechanical ventilation, amongst other energy efficiency strategies.

The construction of Passivhaus buildings follows a meticulous process that adheres to the principles established by the Passivhaus Institut (PHI) in Germany. Certified Passivhaus buildings undergo a rigorous quality assurance process to ensure that they are performing as intended.