Choice
of infill site, preservation of existing features, efficient floor
plan, use of green products, use of orientation and materials to
maximize energy efficiency, and consideration of the entire home
as a system.
Utilized existing infrastructure with
an urban infill lot and proximity to existing community
services that reduces future occupants' transportation
cost.
Orientation and design for daylighting
potential as well as for maximum solar efficiency, and to promote
low heat loss will reduce the amount of energy consumed to operate
the homes.
Preservation of trees and other existing vegetation
provided a mature landscape to help moderate the sun's heat.
Design for home of modest size was
achieved through a space efficient floor plan that incorporated
scissor trusses to add area and value to living space
without adding much cost.
Building Envelope: A
super insulated design was achieved through
the use of post and beam framing with strawbale
infill. Strawbales are an annually renewable
resource and provide an energy efficient
wall system reducing operating costs for
homeowners. More detail on this wall system
is available here.
Deconstruction of dilapidated home and
garage provided some dimensional lumber that was reused for
the project. The lumber was used to construct a privacy fence
and in finishing the interiors of the home.
Exterior Wall Finishes: Durable,
low-maintenance finishes help to prolong the
life of the structures and reduce long-term
operating costs for the structures. The upper
story of one home features a fiber-cement panel
exterior finish manufactured by James Hardie
Building Products. The upper story of the other
home uses asphalt shingles on the walls. Like
the stucco below, both materials will be easy
for occupants to maintain and provide a low-cost
exterior with appealing visual texture.
Foundation: A shallow frost-protected
foundation design reduced material and excavation costs,
and provided energy efficiency. More details on this
foundation system are available here.
Foundation:
Recycled post-consumer glass was used
as foundation backfill.
Structural Frame: Porch steps are built from
a recycled plastic and sawdust composite that doesn't
splinter. These steps are durable and low-maintenance
requiring no sealing or staining.