Extreme Heat and Our Environment: Why Better Homes Are Now a Public Health Imperative
As parts of eastern North America swelter through their first major heatwave of the season, we’re reminded—yet again—just how critical our homes are in protecting us from extreme weather. In a recent BBC article, dozens of people were hospitalised with heat-related illnesses at outdoor events, including children at a school graduation in New Jersey and concertgoers in Washington D.C.
In total, over 160 million people across the United States and Canada have been affected by heat warnings, with some cities seeing overnight temperatures barely dropping below 27°C. It’s a sobering glimpse into what many of us in Australia already know: our weather is changing, and our homes need to change too.
What does this have to do with us here in Australia?
Everything.
Because our homes—especially older, poorly insulated ones—are simply not built for extremes. And it’s no longer just about comfort; it’s about health. Extreme heat is a public health risk, and as we continue to face more frequent and intense weather events, we need to start treating it as such.
Earlier this year, Michael shared his experience during a string of 35°C+ days in Canberra. Inside his Passive House-inspired office. A steady, comfortable 24°C—without switching on a single air conditioner. Thanks to airtight construction, triple-glazed windows, proper insulation and heat recovery ventilation (HRV), the indoor environment remained consistently cool and healthy, despite the blazing temperatures outside.
It’s a stark contrast to the headlines from North America, where emergency departments are overwhelmed and authorities are urging people to stay indoors—indoors that still may not be safe if they’re poorly designed or overheating.
Why aren’t we talking more about building performance?
That’s the question Michael asked too:
"What about if we just built better/upgraded homes and then this wouldn’t even be in the conversation?"
And he’s absolutely right.
We can’t keep relying on air conditioning to fix a problem that starts with poor design. Not when the energy grid is under pressure. Not when power bills are rising. And not when vulnerable people—like the elderly, children, or those with chronic illnesses—are being put at risk.
Designing homes for health, comfort and climate resilience
Homes built to Passive House or high-performance standards can maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, without needing constant mechanical heating or cooling. These homes aren’t just energy-efficient—they’re also healthier, safer, and more climate-ready.
At reimagined habitat, we integrate Passive House principles into every home we design—because we believe homes should support your wellbeing, no matter what the weather is doing outside. That means:
- Airtight, highly insulated envelopes
- High-performance windows and doors
- Heat recovery ventilation for constant fresh air
- Passive solar design that works with nature, not against it
These aren't future luxuries. They’re today’s necessities.
We can design better. And we must.
As heatwaves, bushfires, and storms become more common, the way we design homes has a direct impact on how well families live, cope, and thrive.
This isn’t just about saving energy—it’s about saving lives. And it starts with making smarter choices about how we build and renovate.
Curious about what a climate-ready home could look like for your family?
Book a free consultation with our team today and take the first step towards a healthier, more resilient home that’s built for the future.
You can read the original newsletter article here: