Architects of France’s first passive house unveil latest extraordinary design

From the architects who created France’s first passive house comes another wonder of green design located just outside of Paris. Karawitz Architects have just finished work on the Marly House, a large family passive home designed to “live openly” within the community.

The unique aesthetic of the structure is meant to “awaken the curiosity of the passers-by”. The extreme gabled roof pays homage to the traditional vernacular of the French community, but its pre-greyed larch cladding (CLT prefabricated) gives the home a strong contemporary feel.

The home was built on an incline, which from a certain angle, gives off the impression that the structure is levitating above ground. A perforated galvanized-steel fence allows for some privacy without closing off communication entirely with the community.

On the interior, the architects went with a minimalist touch for the large 145-square-meter space. Raw materials such as steel and concrete were left exposed to create a sense of airiness. A large central fireplace is at the heart of the interior and is the only active heating system in the passive home.

The bedrooms on the top floor have large windows that were installed almost at ceiling height, protecting the privacy of the homeowners while providing natural light into the interior. Although the interior may seem a bit cold at first glance, warm touches like colorful furniture and a playful childrens room with a climbing ladder add a sense of whimsy to the design.