Meet Kristof Irwin, the visionary behind Positive Energy and its journey toward better buildings, passive house, and sustainability. Kristof is the principal of Positive Energy. In that role he works to rethink the way society delivers conditioned space to itself and recognizes the potential of homes and buildings to impact human and planetary thriving.

With a Masters of Science in Electrophysics, Kristof’s expertise extends to the intersection of building science and MEP engineering. Kristof’s background includes 12 years of experience as a custom builder (including deep energy retrofits and zero-net energy projects) and 11 years as a building science consultant. He worked for 14 years as an engineer, research scientist, and physicist for government and university research labs.

As an owner, Kristof sets the tone for Positive Energy’s culture – a blend of kindness, inspiration, and aspiration. He thrives on building long-term, trusting relationships within the AEC industry and beyond. In his role, Kristof advocates for electrification and human health, viewing homes as intricate systems that play a vital role in society. He finds immense joy in witnessing project teams elevate their game, delivering exceptional outcomes that prioritize electrification, health, durability, and resilience.

He is active in the local and national high-performance building community including his role as past Chair of AIA Austin’s Building Enclosure Committee, Advisor to the AIA Austin COTE Committee, as well as several ASHRAE committees – ASHRAE TC-2.1 (Physiology & Human Environment), ASHRAE SSPC-55 (Thermal comfort), ASHRAE SSPC-62.2 (Ventilation/IAQ) – and serves on the Board of Passive House Austin Chapter (PHAUS). Kristof hosts The Building Science Podcast to promote education, advocacy and understanding for the public and within the AEC industry.

The camaraderie among colleagues at Positive Energy resonates deeply with Kristof. The culture of caring for each other as people fuels collaboration and drives the company’s success.

When away from work, Kristof relishes the simple joys of spending time with family, exploring nature, and engaging in water sports like surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wing foiling. He also enjoys delving into books that expand his horizons, from systems ecology to mindfulness. His favorite quote, “Fill your bowl to the brim, and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife, and it will blunt. Chase after money and security, and your heart will never unclench. Care about people’s approval, and you will be their prisoner. Do you work, then step back. The only path to serenity.” by Lao Tsu, reflects his philosophy of balance and mindfulness.

Kristof’s intriguing quirk lies in his unusual reaction to peaches – the furry skin gives him goosebumps! Yet, it’s this unique blend of expertise and quirks that make him a captivating and impactful leader. With Kristof’s leadership and unwavering commitment to a better, sustainable future, Positive Energy continues to thrive as a beacon of innovation in the building industry.