PassivPod Garden Office
Futurebuild Offsite Award Winner 2020
An ultra-low energy pod for work, rest and escape
PassivPod is a beautifully crafted, nature-inspired building designed for the way we live today — whether that’s working from home, taking time out in nature, or hosting sustainable getaways.
Originally created for the Sunday Times and British Homes EcoHaus design competition, the PassivPod began as a concept for off-grid, eco-friendly holiday accommodation beside a lakeside. The design was shortlisted for its innovative use of form and energy performance — and has since evolved into a flexible range of single-storey pods that can serve as:
Garden offices
Eco holiday cabins
Off-grid classrooms or studios
Whatever the use, each pod is built to Passivhaus principles, delivering outstanding energy efficiency and year-round comfort with only minimal heating required.
Shaped like an elegant ellipsoid, the pod’s organic form isn’t just striking — it’s thermally efficient too. Inside, a plywood ribbed structure is packed with natural cellulose insulation, wrapped airtight, and ventilated with mechanical heat recovery to maintain fresh, filtered air throughout the day. A triple-glazed entrance provides passive solar gain, while the building rests on stilts to tread lightly on the land and adapt to sloping terrain.
Clad in Western Red Cedar shingles, the pod nestles beautifully into its surroundings. All materials are selected for low embodied carbon and non-toxic properties, supporting health and sustainability at every level.
Whether nestled in a garden or placed in a rural retreat, the PassivPod offers a peaceful, planet-friendly space that feels good to be in — and leaves a lighter footprint behind.
"Mark came up with a wonderful design which maximises the natural attributes of our rural site”
Geoff & Gail Aucock
“Mark’s contribution has been invaluable. I have recommended him to others and I would be happy to work with him again”
Ruth Stoton
“Mark has been very straight-forward and professional and has given me sound practical advice.”
Roger Ross
“Working with Mark was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We couldn't have been happier with the end result.”
Andrew & Emma Wilkie
"It's his quiet confidence that makes you feel more confident about what it is you’re doing. We would definitely recommend working with Mark from Koru."
Adele O’Hehir
"Koru Architects have been a 'breath of fresh air’ in helping me develop my concept and taking this through to design."
Gino Fox
"Mark’s designs have been very innovative, making good use of a difficult site. His service has pleased me enormously!"
Herb Etkin
Ready to discuss a project? Get in touch today.
01273 204065
info@koruarchitects.co.uk
Studio 221, 91 Western Road,
Brighton and Hove, BN1 2NW
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