Site Description
FEATURES: Advanced Building Envelope, Built Green Certified, Design Innovation, Electric Vehicle Charging, Energy Efficient, Energy Star Appliances, Indoor Air Quality, Materials Efficiency, Net-Zero, New Construction, Solar Power, Water Conservation
Conceived as a site-responsive, net-zero residence, this home integrates passive solar design, rigorous building science, and high-performance mechanical systems to deliver a living environment defined by a healthy environment, comfort, and resilience. The project is pursuing 5-Star Built Green certification.
The architectural approach begins with site orientation. The home is organized along an east–west axis, maximizing southern exposure and harnessing seasonal solar gain. A two-story glazed aperture anchors the dining space, extending into the primary living volume and an upper circulation bridge. This vertical void becomes both a spatial and environmental device—drawing daylight deep into the plan while moderating interior temperatures through passive heat gain across cooler months.
The project builds upon the existing site with a measured strategy. The new structure is carefully placed over the footprint of the original home, preserving mature trees and established vegetation while minimizing disturbance. Portions of the existing foundation are retained and integrated, reducing material consumption and embodied carbon in new concrete.
The building envelope is conceived as a continuous, high-performance shell. Exterior insulation mitigates thermal bridging, while a tightly sealed air barrier significantly reduces uncontrolled air infiltration. This precision supports both energy efficiency and the careful management of indoor air quality.
Fresh air is delivered through a balanced heat recovery ventilation system, ensuring a constant supply of filtered outdoor air to each living space while reclaiming energy from exhaust air. Heating and cooling are provided by a zoned heat pump system, allowing for quiet, efficient, and highly controlled thermal comfort throughout the home.
A south-facing shed roof accommodates a photovoltaic array, enabling the home to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of the year.
At its core, the project is an exploration of performance and place—crafting a warm, light-filled environment that supports the daily rhythms of family life while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.











