DesignPH Theory to Practice Training

Maximise your use of the DesignPH software with tips, tricks and best practices from an Australian Passivhaus expert

Next course begins June 8th

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Next course begins June 8th I

Training Overview

Presenter Marcus Strang leads this workshop where he will share his tricks, tips, and experiences that will ensure you are maximising your use of the designPH software.

This course will demonstrate how a building model can be rapidly set up using DesignPH & PHPP to receive preliminary feedback on the energy performance of your building design, improving your decision-making processes. As a practical course, the DesignPH Software Training ensures you can apply all the theoretical knowledge from previous courses and enhance your competitiveness as a Passivhaus Designer.

Who should attend? 

  • Passivhaus Designers who use PHPP and are looking to streamline their design process

  • Anyone who has recently completed the CPHD/C course and looking to gain more software knowledge

  • New users of the DesignPH software, looking to get the most out of their software

Must haves before the course begins:

  • PHPP Software

  • DesignPH Software (included in the course purchase, $590)

  • SketchUp

  • A current project - if you don't have one, Marcus will give you one. 


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Training Benefits

  • Improve your understanding of how to use DesignPH with PHPP by avoiding common mistakes made by first-time users.

  • Learn how to use DesignPH to improve your building designs.

  • Learn how to translate a SketchUp design into a functioning PHPP model.

  • Improve your understanding of the early-stage factors that enable project viability.

  • Rapidly and accurately set up a building model using DesignPH & PHPP to receive preliminary feedback on the energy performance of a building design.

  • Use modelling outputs to improve the decision-making process and optimise the design.

  • Model complex building geometries and shading situations.

  • Use DesignPH to assist the Passivhaus certification process.

  • Tips and tricks based on real-world Passivhaus experience to ensure you maximise the use of DesignPH on SketchUp.

Training Curriculum

    • Introduction and basics of designPH2.

    • The user interface and the designPH2 console.

    • The designPH modelling environment and producing geometry appropriate for export to PHPP.

    • The complete modelling workflow (generating thermal envelope, treated floor area, shading elements).

    • Correctly assigning thermal bridges, assemblies and windows.

    • Learn how to avoid a range of common mistakes when using the PHPP & designPH, save yourself time and energy in your first design projects.

    • Shading analysis.

    • PHPP10 introduction (key worksheets and understanding results).

    • Iterative design concepts.

2026 Course Dates & Delivery

Equivalent to a half day training, delivered online over three consecutive days from 5:30pm - 7:30pm AEST.

  • Delivered online from 5:30pm - 7:30pm AEST on three consecutive days:

    June 8th → June 10th 2026

APA Members save over 15% on this course.

Membership Application Form

Member

  • Early Bird Price: $980
    Full Price: $1030

Non-Member

  • Early Bird Price: $1,130
    Full Price: $1,220

Price includes DesignPH software ($590)

*10% GST added at check out for all listed pricing

In-House DesignPH Theory to Practice Training and Group Pricing Options

Many of our clients talk about the significant benefits of knowledge transfer with group training, as participants have a cohort to cross-reference lessons learnt and content by following the training during their practical application at work. Our pricing is structured so that the more you have on board, the more you’ll save.  

Get in touch today to see our group price offering.

Terms and Conditions

Training FAQs

  • Yes, a company may be able to register their staff to attend this program. Discounts are available you have a company membership, for any staff listed in the membership's sub-profile, including discounts on courses and events. Once the staff member's sub-profile is activated, they can register for the course or event through their profile.

  • The DesignPH Software takes place across three consecutive days from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

  • Yes, you will receive all the necessary materials and resources, such as slides and cheatsheets.

  • 1 week prior to the course start date, the DesignPH software will be organised and added to your PHI log in.

Our Educators

  • Marcus Strang is a specialist sustainability engineer and experienced Certified Passivhaus Designer, having had the opportunity to work on many Certified Passivhaus buildings in Australia. His expertise is in refining building energy performance, analysing thermal envelope junctions and fenestration details, as well as identifying interstitial and surface moisture risks using hygrothermal modelling tools.

    Marcus’s interests encompass holistic systems design, building physics, passive design optimisation and natural building materials. Currently, also a PhD Candidate specialising in the Passivhaus Standard and mass timber design, which he sees as a fundamental step for striving towards net-zero carbon emission buildings and a thriving, vibrant society.

Hear from past participants

  • "Great introduction to DesignPH for people just starting to use it. Marcus was knowledgeable and presented the material clearly"

    - Certified Passivhaus Designer

  • "Marcus is a very good teacher. He speaks slowly and clearly, taking time to ensure that everyone is following him. And his lessons were well organised and logically arranged. It was great to have received all the teaching documents in advance."

    - Barbara Reeve
    Owner Builder

  • "Marcus presented a great overview. I now feel confident with setting up a DesignPH model now."

    - Tony Pike
    Building Designer at Solarcert Building Design

Who relies on our training