ECHO.1 was designed to demonstrate that high-end, energy-efficient living is not only achievable, but scalable. Set in one of Melbourne’s most established heritage suburbs, this proof-of-concept project merges Passive House performance with contemporary architecture and sustainable material use.

From the outset, the team at C.Street Projects invested in deep research and material exploration to ensure the development aligned with their vision: luxury homes with ultra-low energy use, healthy internal environments, and long-term durability.

Passivhaus standards demand airtight construction, high-performance insulation, and low-toxicity materials, all areas where Durra Panel excels. Our solid straw core panels were used to wrap the entire structural envelope, delivering:

• Continuous thermal and acoustic insulation
• Reduced thermal bridging across framing
• Excellent soundproofing in a dense urban context
• Locally made, low embodied carbon materials
• A breathable, low-VOC solution compatible with airtight design

To manage weather exposure during construction, an external wrap was applied to the panels, and the installer cut and sealed each panel on-site to maintain airtight integrity — even around complex structural junctions.

By using Durra Panel, the project team was able to meet Passive House performance targets without compromising on design or material values. These homes are projected to use up to 70% less energy than the average Victorian home, reducing both carbon emissions and annual bills (estimated at just $700–$800 per year per home). 2486.5m² of Durra Panel was used throught the project, locking away 77.08 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Combined with features like triple-glazed windows, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, solar power and battery storage, ECHO.1 offers a real blueprint for Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) in Australia.

See It for Yourself: Open House Melbourne 2025
ECHO.1 will be featured in Open House Melbourne 2025, providing a unique opportunity for designers, builders, and the public to experience these future-facing homes firsthand.🔗 More details here.

We congratulate C.Street Projects, Neil Architecture, Creation Projects, and the entire team for delivering such an impactful project — one that proves energy-efficient housing can be premium, practical, and replicable.

At Durra Panel, we’re proud to support projects like this that lead the way in decarbonising the built environment, improving occupant wellbeing, and showing what’s possible when sustainable design and innovation come together.

Interested in using Durra Panel in your next energy-efficient project?
Explore our applications or talk to our technical team today.

Client Name: C-Street Projects
Builder: Creation Projects
Architect: Neil Architecture
Installer: Total Clad and Coat
Finish: S50 Natural Finish Durra Panel