Net Zero Energy Home Construction
Name: Net Zero
Completed: 2010
Architectural Design: RDC Fine Homes Inc.
Interior Design: Laura Henderson Interior Design
This house is designed to be a Net Zero Energy home. This means that the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site.
Innovative and functional design:
- Home designed for aging in place with wide hallways and doors to accommodate future wheel chair access including a low slope ramp integrated into the landscape.
- South orientation for passive solar gain in the winter. Passive shading incorporated into design with computer modeling.
- Snowshed from solar panel roof integrated into design to reduce hazard and ensure maximum winter solar exposure.
Architectural character including integration of the project into its setting was achieved by:
- Designed as passive solar net zero home blends seamlessly into neighborhood.
- Home set into landscape to reduce massing.
Environmental considerations include:
- Triple pane Fiberglass low E Argon windows.
- Structural concrete floors polished as finished floors.
- 6 KW solar photovoltaic system.
- R 30 SIP’s walls with airtight building envelope
- ICF foundation,
- Built Green enrollment
- Innovative high efficiency heating and ventilation technology. Expected to out perform conventional system.
- Greywater heat recovery.
- Sustainable Green Low VOC materials throughout
- Energy Star Appliances
Challenges faced during the building process:
- Installing and commissioning new technology for mechanical systems
- Photovoltaic installation in winter.
- Tight 10 month construction schedule to complete for Olympics.
Creative use of space and functionality of floor plan:
- Design with kitchen, living, dining, master ensuite and den all on one floor.
- High efficiency wood stove in main living area is aesthetic focal point, acts as central heating source.
- Main windows oriented to optimize natural daylighting.