It's time to follow up on a project a cool project, the Zero Energy Idea House, that we mentioned at ground breaking in July 2008. Located at Bass Cove near Bellevue, Washington, the 1,630 square-foot, two-bedroom Zero Energy Idea House was designed by Clinkston Brunner Architects and built by Shirey Contracting. Overlooking Lake Sammamish, the home is planted into the hill as a demonstration of energy efficiency — the goal is to show that it generates as much energy as it uses.
The Zero Energy Idea House was designed to conserve first and generate energy second. The home features efficient construction with SIPs, as well as high-efficiency hyrdronic heating, energy-efficient windows, Energy Star lighting and appliances, and real-time monitoring of energy use. On top of this, there is a photovoltaic system, a solar hot water system, and a vertical axis wind turbine by Helix Wind.
In addition to conserving energy, the home features water efficient fixtures, too. There's dual-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads and faucets, a rainwater collection system, and drought tolerant plant selections.
The green roof normalizes the temperature of the house, while a number of green materials were used in the construction. FSC certified woods, recycled content tiles, salvaged wood flooring, low VOC paints, formaldehyde free insulation and cabinets, locally manufactured materials, and long-lasting siding and a metal roof.
The Zero Energy Idea House is a stellar example of green home innovation and will be open for tours on Saturdays and Sundays through the first week in November. Learn more here:
[+] Zero Energy Idea House in Bass Cove, Washington.
Photo credits: Northwest Property Imaging and Zero Energy Idea House.
I think that if more and more of these kinds of homes were built, not only would it be low-priced, it could also start of a trend and lessen our dependency on other countries for energy.
That’s pretty fancy but it can be done to an old house, too.
I bought an old beach house in S. Cal (granted, the weather here is mild).
I replaced the natural gas appliances with electric appliances – $3000
I insulated – $3000
I replaced a couple of windows – $2000
I put a 5kw pv system on the roof (with help of friends & family) – $15000 after credit & rebate
So, for $23k i have an energy neutral beach house. In fact, I oversized my PV system. Energy Independence starts at (my) home.
I love these opaque garage doors. Any idea where they can be found?
From my collection of links:
http://www.martindoor.com/?gclid=CKSD1aObrpwCFR5HagodzxnFkA
http://www.nwdusa.com/home/residential/aluminum_doors/modern_classic/designs.php
http://www.clopaydoor.com/avante.aspx
http://www.glassgaragedoors.com/gallery.htm
Wow, thanks!
I think the doors are from Northwest Door in the Modern Classic Series.
I really like the bathroom, the sink is gorgeous. Zero energy homes are a big interest of mine, it is good to see one so close to my own backyard.
-Tyler