Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1527280
Architecture & Design | 27 means that Passivhaus buildings are not only energy- efficient but also more resilient and less likely to require costly maintenance in the future. Beyond individual benefits, the widespread adoption of Passivhaus could have profound implications for Malta's environmental footprint. Given the country's sunny Mediterranean climate, Passivhaus buildings combined with renewable energy sources such as solar panels could pave the way toward energy self-sufficient buildings. "This standard can help Malta make significant progress toward meeting its EU climate targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency," Camilleri highlights. Another misconception is that Passivhaus restricts design flexibility, a myth Camilleri actively dispels. "Passivhaus principles can be integrated into various architectural styles and building types. From pitched roof buildings in Canada to vernacular masonry homes in the south of Spain, the standard has been adapted across diverse climates and cultures," he clarifies. Overcoming Challenges in Warmer Climates One of the biggest challenges of implementing Passivhaus in a Mediterranean climate like Malta's is overheating. Camilleri explains that managing heat gain during the hot summer months requires a thoughtful approach, utilizing strategies such as shading, ventilation, and the careful selection of building materials. Yet, he also points out that some common design choices in Malta—such as placing large glazed windows on south-facing facades— counteract the principles of energy efficiency. "Context is key," he stresses, "from aesthetics to making the building function the way it should." By integrating passive design strategies that respond to Malta's specific climate, architects can optimise buildings for energy efficiency without compromising on comfort. Policy Support and the Need for Stricter Regulations One of the most pressing issues raised by Camilleri is the lack of policy enforcement in Malta when it comes to sustainability. While the country is taking steps toward improving energy efficiency, such as implementing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in line with EU directives, enforcement remains weak. "If the EPC has no weight and is merely another tick- box exercise required by the bank, then it has no effect," he warns. To drive sustainable architecture forward, Camilleri believes that Malta must introduce stricter building regulations and offer incentives for developers to adopt energy-efficient practices like Passivhaus. He cites Scotland as a model, where Passivhaus is mandatory for all new public buildings, supported by financial incentives and training programs for architects and builders. Malta, he argues, needs a similar framework that includes policy support, education, and regulation. The Future of Energy-Efficient Building Design As the EU pushes for carbon-neutral buildings by 2050, Camilleri envisions a future where energy- efficient standards like Passivhaus will become the norm. With advancements in smart building automation, innovative materials, and prefabricated components, architects will have new tools to design buildings that not only meet sustainability goals but also enhance the quality of life for their occupants. Looking ahead, he's optimistic about the role architecture will play in combating climate change. He stresses the importance of preserving existing buildings and minimising new construction to reduce embodied carbon—the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the life cycle of building materials. Camilleri's insights reflect a clear message: sustainability is not just an option—it's an imperative. From advocating for the use of renewable materials and circular economy principles to embracing energy- efficient building standards like Passivhaus, the future of architecture lies in our ability to innovate and adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing world. As Malta and other nations face stricter EU regulations, architects like Camilleri will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and resilient built environment. Hotel Marcel became the first Passive House-certified hotel in the US in 2022 through a historic rehabilitation and adaptive re-use of mid-century modernist building. Architects (existing building): Mar- cel Breuer, Robert Gatje Architects (refurbishment) : Becker + Becker Associates Photo Credits: © Seamus Payne