In 2013 the Urban Co-housing Otepoti was formed, and over a six-year period, the group developed and refined their ideas and requirements into an economically viable, energy efficient co-housing development project. The group now known as Toiora High Street CoHousing Community purchased a 5,000 sqm site that was the former High Street Primary School and in November 2018, eHaus Otago commenced construction. The project is New Zealand’s first certified passive house co-housing development. Tim Ross of Architype was the lead Architect and also one of the home owners. He and his team have done an amazing job creating a total of 21 passive house homes, ranging in size from two bedroom to large five-bedroom homes, each with their own private outdoor area. The central eHaus team worked closely with Architype from the outset to ensure that the design met the Passive House standard and also the budget expectations. Credit also to Stevenson & Williams the locally trained and appointed eHaus Otago team that built the homes.  In addition to the 21 Passive Houses, part of the former school buildings were modified to accommodate a large communal community centre which includes dining area, offices and meeting rooms. Passive House Classic Certification was awarded in two parts; the first consisting of 6 homes in a single terraced row referred to as Alva Street. The second a multi level development of 15 units referred to as High Street. A sincere thank you to all that were involved in making this fantastic project a reality.

Photo Credit: Andy Spain ©