Passive House Tour: State Line PH Retrofit
Saturday, June 20, 2026
4:00 – 6:00 PM
Millerton, NY
Why are retrofits so dang hard, and is there a way to make them easier?
Deep energy retrofits require solving hundreds of interconnected problems — complex existing conditions, the need for creative airtightness and thermal detailing, squeezing modern mechanical systems into a footprint that was never designed for them. Yet they also represent one of the greatest opportunities to reduce energy use and improve the comfort, health, and durability of our existing housing stock.
Join us for a tour of a nearly completed passive house retrofit in Millerton, New York. Originally built in the 1990s, this home has undergone a comprehensive transformation focused on energy performance, durability, comfort, and indoor air quality, all while preserving and enhancing the character of the existing structure (with a few sexy additions along the way).
During the tour, we’ll discuss the enclosure strategy, mechanical systems, lessons learned throughout construction, and the unique opportunities and constraints that come with pursuing passive house certification in an existing building. We’ll take an honest look at what went well, what could have gone better, and where we see opportunities to make future retrofits simpler, more affordable, and more repeatable.
The conversation will be geared toward builders, designers, consultants, homeowners, and those interested in high-performance construction, but all are welcome!
Hosted by Cole Shapiro from Building House and Kyle Wilson from Goldenrod Green Energy, this event offers a chance to see passive house principles applied in a real-world renovation and to engage directly with the team behind the project.
Event Sponsors
NYSERDA supports New York’s transition to clean energy by funding energy efficiency, renewable energy, and emissions-reduction initiatives. Programs help residents, businesses, and communities lower energy costs, reduce environmental impacts, and build a more equitable and sustainable energy system.
LEAP
Relationship to Project: Architect / Certified Passive House Consultant
LEAP is a design practice focused on thoughtful, high-performance architecture that integrates sustainability, comfort, and long-term durability. Their work emphasizes building science, passive house principles, and carefully detailed modern design.
Building House
Relationship to Project: Builder
Building House is a Hudson Valley–based design-build firm specializing in high-performance homes, passive house construction, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Their work combines advanced building science with a deep focus on materials and craft.
Goldenrod Green Energy
Relationship to Project: Passive House Rater / Energy Consultant
Goldenrod Green Energy provides passive house consulting, energy modeling, and building performance verification services for high-performance residential and commercial projects. Their work helps project teams meet rigorous energy and comfort standards.
Clerestory Design Build
Relationship to Project: Enclosure Specialist
Clerestory Design Build specializes in high-performance building enclosures, air sealing, and construction detailing for durable, low-energy buildings. Their work bridges design intent and field execution to achieve high levels of building performance.
475 Supply
Relationship to Project: High Performance Materials Supplier
475 High Performance Building Supply provides building science-driven materials, technical support, and education for passive house and high-performance construction. Their product lineup includes airtightness systems, vapor control layers, insulation solutions, and high-efficiency ventilation systems.
Sash and Frame
Relationship to Project: High Performance Window Supplier
Sash and Frame supplies high-performance European windows and doors for passive house and energy-efficient projects. They work closely with architects and builders to support advanced enclosure design and detailing.
Registration
Register on Eventbrite HERE
About Our Chapter
Phius Alliance New York State (Phius NYS) is the New York State chapter of Phius Alliance. Passive House professionals advocate for making ultra-low energy buildings a mainstream market force and an accepted best practice in the building industry. Phius Alliance NYS is your New York State resource for information about the passive house model and professionals who specialize in energy efficient design. Learn more at www.phiusny.org.