Prefabricated Passivhaus Z1

ZEST Architecture is known for integrating sustainability and Passive design in all its projects. Given the growing demand for more affordable, bespoke housing situated in a wide variety of locations and with a reduced construction time, and given the continuous changes in recent decades in construction systems and in the climate itself, ZEST believed it necessary to create a housing project that, without renouncing the highest quality standards, could be Passive House, prefabricated and additionally be adaptable to any terrain. On these premises our Z1 House was born, a home designed to the smallest detail and with options to adapt finishes, distribution and size.

Each family has different needs and the uses for individual spaces in the home have become increasingly varied, especially since  COVID-19 and the consequent change in lifestyle. For this reason we have developed different size versions of the same house. Currently we have designed the Z1-S, Z1-M and the Z1-L.

The Z1 House is a real architectural project, with construction systems available on the market for which the detailed cost has been calculated, with no margin for error.

The Z1 is designed as a single storey home with a wood-frame structure on a set of columns, making it adaptable to varying terrains and slopes and differing orientations. Depending on the version chosen, the façade finish will be plastered SATE or a combined plastered SATE and timber-clad ventilated façade. The extreme simplicity of the design has been made possible by a very strong conceptual design. The bedrooms and bathrooms are located on either side of the main living wing, and there may be 2 to 4 bedrooms and 1 to 2 offices. The main living spaces are all laid out in an open plan space, with maximum contact with the exterior, and the views. Overhangs with wooden slats and vertical slatted shutters provide maximum shading flexibility throughout the year.

The terrace that wraps around the building creates the ideal inside-outside connection; a comfortable space for enjoying the landscape, shady when and where necessary. All windows are floor to ceiling and with LowE glazing.

All variants of the Z1 have been designed according to Passive House standards and can be officially certified if required.