Change is afoot. Our work involves attempting to identify a new, smarter way to build; to meet the new, post Global Warming paradigm – That the planet system is finite and must be respected everywhere in everything we do, or we will eventually cause its collapse. This new paradigm directs us to 1) stop all burning of carbon based materials, natural or man-made, 2) use fewer resources more efficiently and 3) stop designing and producing waste that cannot be absorbed effectively. When applied to construction, this must be accomplished with familiar materials assembled by the current workforce using techniques that they are familiar within normal ranges of price. I believe that this is possible if we rely on the properties of static construction materials first, adding mechanical force and digital controls as last resort.
Lot Preparation
Effective zero impervious surface – Impervious surface is for supplemental rainwater harvest only.
Minimize disruption of natural systems adjacent to building – limited excavation for footings and geo-thermal piping, combined. Living space does not directly contact earth.
Minimize lot clearing; minimal disruption to natural landscape around and under residence
Order of construction - shell completed 100%, then interiors
Shell
Intentionally designed for air-tightness
Eliminate extraneous work in shell
Foundations
Isolate enclosure from the ground – incompatible
Framing
Post & Beam steel frame w/ wood trusses & curtain wall. Light weight construction
Simplified framing, 24” OC throughout shell, uninterrupted
Doors &
Windows
Simplify window installation – Triple or quad glazing. Flush mounted creates “smooth” interior & exterior, Eliminates complicated trim details, simplifies water & moisture control.
Reduce air resistance on outside of structure
Plumbing Rough-ins
Grey water system
Rain water harvesting for irrigation.
Garden irrigation system
Mechanical Rough-ins
Ground source heat pump, geo-thermal
Electrical Rough-ins
12 volt solar PV system
AC Electrical for “heavy” equipment – power tools
Siding
Permanent light-weight exterior siding, finishes and roof
Roofing
Single ply membrane roofing; Green Roof, actual roof garden, including Full Kitchen garden and wild flower “meadow”.
Metal Roofing - Rain water harvesting.
Insulation
Super-insulation; dramatically increased volume of insulation.
Un-vented roof cavity in direct contact with Green Roof
Insulated interior shutters to control larger than normal glass areas
