Description: This unusual custom home is part of the national Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. With a focus on indoor air quality and renewable energy, this house demonstrates state of art building technology, such as ICF (insulated concrete form) exterior walls, PEX plumbing lines and reflective standing seam roofing. A 3kW photovoltaic solar system will provide about 15% of the home’s power. A Solar water heating system will be used in conjunction with two tank-less water heaters. A 22 SEER air conditioning system is being installed with fresh air intake, dehumidification and the most advanced ultra violet, air filtration system available. 

Green Features as outlined by the LEED H Pilot rating system

SITE: The new home is almost on the same footprint of the original house to minimize disturbance to the site’s trees and plants.   New landscaping includes selection of local plants designed to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

WATER EFFICIENCY: The homeowner selected PEX flexible plumbing lines, water-efficient appliances and dual flush toilets.  Drought tolerant landscaping will be used.  Two gas tankless Rinaii water heaters eliminate the need to heat water when it is not in demand.

MATERIALS AND RESOURCES: Bamboo flooring, a sustainable FSC certified wood floor, recycled rubber flooring and locally produced aluminum windows are examples of “green building” choices.  Tile with recycled content produced within a 500 miles radius have also been selected for some bathroom surfaces.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Eleven inch thick ICF walls, consisting of foam and concrete, create an equivalent R-value of 40.  This reduces the air conditioning load by almost half.  The attic is a sealed space, unlike the traditional vented attic.  Special blown in Icenyne insulation covers the underside of the roof deck.  The roof itself is a reflective metal standing seam roof.  The windows are Energy Star rated, with a thermal break in the aluminum construction.  Projected utility bills for this 4,500 sq. ft. home are $ 205 per month.
 
RENEWABLE ENERGY: A 3kW  PV Solar system will provide about 15% of the home’s power.  A Solar water heating system will be used in conjunction with tank-less water heaters.

SPECIAL DESIGN FEATURES: Indoor slide, complete recording studio for owner’s rock band, copper ceiling, concrete storm room, elevator shaft via stacked closets!