Behind the design: From sketch to sustainability icon

We take you inside the award-winning eco luxe home championing sustainable design. Tucked away in Melbourne’s trendy Inner North, The Hütt 01 PassivHaus is a groundbreaking example of how luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist. From its patterned recycled brick façade to its lush rooftop garden, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to enhance well-being while minimising environmental impact. We sat down with homeowners Felicity & Marc to uncover the vision, innovation, and design philosophy behind this award-winning residence.

As a little fun element the bricks display their ‘insides’ in a decorative strip, giving an insight into Melbourne’s history of brick-making - including two very special bricks from the 1956 Olympics here in Melbourne at either end of the wall. 

Using timber from responsibly managed forests was a no-brainer for us. This means the rate of replanting exceeds harvesting, ensuring the forest continues to thrive. Timber is a fantastic material—it absorbs carbon throughout its life, acting like a natural carbon sponge.

The rooftop garden is a showstopper. What was the inspiration behind its creation and how does it enhance your living experience?

It truly is an incredible space. The inspiration behind the rooftop garden was rooted in our desire to give back to the earth as much as we take. When we build, we often cover the ground, reducing space for biodiversity and a healthy planet. By transforming the roof into a thriving green space, we’re able to return that land to nature, welcoming wildlife and fostering biodiversity. 

It provides excellent insulation for the rooms below, helps capture carbon, produces oxygen, and contributes to cooling the environment around us. Best of all it offers a breath-taking view from our bedroom and is our favourite space to enjoy reading a book in peace and quiet, all you hear are the birds tweeting.

How did the concept evolve during the design process for you as architect and homeowner?

It's funny you ask that—many people have asked this question, as it's quite a complex build! Interestingly, the concept began with a quick sketch on the back of an envelope. We wanted to see if we could design something that not only worked harmoniously with the site but also maximised northern sunlight and garden spaces while creating meaningful, inspiring interiors. Amazingly, that initial sketch closely resembles what you see here today. A eco luxe home with thermal comfort, fresh filtered air free from pollen and pollutants, a healthy indoor environment, and low energy bills—why wouldn’t that be the foundation of a luxury home? True luxury isn’t just about expensive materials and finishes; it’s also about a lifestyle that enhances your well-being and brings joy.

The home seamlessly combines luxury and function. Can you walk us through the design of key spaces, such as the sunken lounge and chef’s kitchen?

This home was designed around the lifestyle of a family, setting the tone with a palette of organic materials and thoughtful layouts. Designed as a conversation pit, the sunken lounge is ideal for gathering with friends and family. With the click of a button, a 3-meter-wide dropdown screen turns the lounge into a cinema room, perfect for amazing movie nights. Our kids loved it so much they preferred staying in over going out to the movies. 

The kitchen is a chef’s dream and features stunning natural quartzite marble. The soft, sand-poured hues are truly one of the most beautiful stones on earth. We’ve whipped up incredible dishes on the Teppanyaki plate and impressed guests with hot-batter ice cream straight from the steam oven.

The north garden features an entertaining area with a built-in wood BBQ, a swimming pond with a tranquil water fall, and a daybed that overhangs the natural pond—perfect for dipping your toes in the pure water or going for a quick plunge.

What three words would you use to describe The Hütt 01? 

The Hütt 01 has received numerous awards and even been featured on Grand Designs Australia. How has this recognition influenced your perspective on sustainable architecture? 

We feel incredibly humbled and excited that sustainability, which is so close to our hearts, resonates so strongly with others and has garnered such positive attention. We hope it inspires more people to explore sustainable alternatives that create a better home—both for themselves and for the planet. 

Above all, we hope that this home brings as much joy, wellness and happiness to its next owner as it has to us, and continues to inspire future generations to prioritise sustainability in their own lives.