Luxury Passive House Hits Market for $11.5M+

A remarkable four-bedroom residence at 3 Leighton Court, Toorak, is making its debut on the market, featuring a price range of $11.5 million to $12.65 million. This property represents a significant achievement in sustainable living, designed and constructed with both Passivhaus principles and the Living Building Challenge in mind. The owner, David Sutton, was inspired by a 1980s government publication on energy-efficient homes to pursue this ambitious project.

Sutton, who previously built a passive house in Germany, brought his vision for an architecturally significant, yet highly sustainable home to Melbourne. The Limestone House, as it is known, uses Mount Gambier limestone for its exterior and incorporates advanced features like 40 solar panels feeding a battery system and a 31,000-litre underground water tank. While not formally certified under Passivhaus or Living Building Challenge, the design prioritizes a regenerative environment.

Architect John Wardle described the project as an "ambitious vision," emphasizing the clients' deep understanding of passive house concepts and the Living Building Challenge. The home aims to balance intimate family living with cutting-edge environmental technology, utilizing local materials such as Tasmanian oak and engaging local artisans. The property has attracted a diverse range of buyers interested in luxury, design, and sustainability.