In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, hosts Mary James and Ilka Cassidy sit down with Kristina Held, principal and founder of Held Architecture. Kristina shares her fascinating path through architectural education in Serbia, Germany, and the U.S., and how that global experience shaped her approach to Passive House. From humidity challenges in the Carolinas to adaptive reuse and detailing with precision, Christina offers deep insight into designing for performance, comfort, and climate resilience.

https://www.heldarch.com/

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Mary James sits down with Parlin Meyer, Managing Principal of BrightBuilt Home, and Chris Lee, Head of Design & Development at Backyard ADUs, for a deep dive into the growing world of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Together, they explore how prefabrication, modular construction, and progressive policy shifts are reshaping the housing landscape in the Northeast and beyond. From multigenerational living to zoning reforms and cost challenges, Parlin and Chris share insights from the front lines of ADU design and delivery—what’s working, what’s not, and where this crucial housing type is headed.

https://www.brightbuilthome.com/

https://backyardadus.com/

Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox and Mary James talk with Lisette Wong and Jack Esterson of Think! Architecture & Design to explore the award-winning Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Plaza project. Learn how this project blends community heritage with Passive House sustainability in Harlem. Lisette and Jack share their journey to Passive House, the project’s innovative design features—including advanced HVAC, daylighting with large operable skylights, green roofs, and PV systems—and the deep community impact of creating year-round space for market vendors and residents alike.

https://www.think-arc.com/

Reimagine Buildings '25 https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/events/reimagine-buildings-25

Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.