Architectural Design Case Study – Passive & Sustainable Strategies
Architectural Design Case Study – Passive & Sustainable Strategies
by Amanda Cavallo
September 5, 2024
by Amanda Cavallo
September 5, 2024
The main living space is oriented south, blending indoor-outdoor living with efficiency. Facing south, we utilize the most sun possible for light, for solar heat gain in the winter, and for optimal solar energy capture with solar panels. The rear overhang and pergola are sized to block the direct summer sun but let the lower winter sun in to warm the space. The large sliding doors at the living room and kitchen, paired with operable skylights on the second floor, create an upward pathway for airflow, or “stack effect”, which helps to passively cool the space without the use of mechanical air conditioning.
A lot of Low-E double-pained windows and skylights are located throughout, minimizing the need for artificial light.
An air-tight insulated and conditioned attic connects to continuous insulation around the entire envelope preventing energy loss.
Photovoltaic solar panels allow all the appliances and equipment to run on electricity at a low cost. This project has been prepped for future battery storage for backup power in case of an emergency.
Water pumped through copper tubes inside rooftop solar thermal panels is heated by the strong California sun. The heated water is then stored in a tank where it can be used for hot water in showers, sinks, and the outdoor spa.
The Rheem Proterra Heat Pump Water heater is the most efficient on the market. Able to produce $4 worth of heated water for every $1 spent. And with the help of the solar thermal panels pre-heating the water, the cost savings will be even greater.
A split-unit electric Heat Pump system creates two zones for heating and cooling forced air in this home.
ERVs have additional ducting which recovers the desired heat or cool temperature from the conditioned air inside and transfers it to the fresh intake air.
Induction cooking is now recognized by homeowners and professionals alike as the superior method of cooking – more convenient than electric, more precise and safer than gas. This home has a beautiful 36-inch ”Freedom” Series by Thermador.
The refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, double wall oven, and washer & dryer are also all electric in this home, making this home healthier, safer, less expensive and more efficient.
Owens Corning Next Gen insulation is economically priced and has one of the highest recycled content for fiberglass insulation.
The home has been dual-plumbed for future graywater system hook-up, meaning that there are two waste lines from each of the showers, non-kitchen sinks, and washing machine: one to the sewer, and one that can be connected to subsurface irrigation lines or a filtering system for spray irrigation or toilet flushing.
