Nature abounds with free energy and processes which can be used to cool, heat, ventilate, and power our homes
more
efficiently and sustainably.
In the face of extreme heat brought on by climate change, traditional cooling methods using HVAC systems often
result in exorbitant costs, high greenhouse gas emissions and poor indoor air quality.
Our models combine the latest energy solutions, healthy materials and sustainable architecture to effectively
manage temperature, moisture, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and ensure a constant flow of clean, fresh air
within our living spaces.
High Performance Envelope
Efficient insulation and airtightness play a vital role in the high-performance envelope of a sustainable
building:
Insulation
Proper insulation minimizes heat transfer through walls, roofs, and floors, reducing the need for
heating and cooling. High-quality insulation materials maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and contribute
to long-term energy savings.
Airtightness
Ensuring airtight building envelopes prevents unwanted air leaks, which can lead to energy
losses and reduced comfort. An airtight structure enhances thermal performance, reduces drafts, and improves
indoor air quality.
Thermal Windows
Using energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and high
thermal resistance further enhances the building's thermal performance. These windows reduce heat gain in hot
weather and heat loss during colder months, maintaining a more stable and comfortable indoor environment.
Power
Onsite Renewable Energy
Onsite renewable energy sources, such as solar roofs, significantly reduce monthly utility bills and greenhouse
gas
emissions. Solar roofs generate electric current, which can be stored and used for various purposes. The heat
generated by the glass panels can also be utilized for direct hot water usage, indoor heating, or energy storage,
further lowering utility costs.
High Efficiency Energy Use
Monitoring and Automation
Implementing smart building systems and automation technologies allows for precise monitoring and control of
energy
use. Sensors and algorithms optimize energy efficiency by adjusting heating, cooling, lighting, and other systems
based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions.
High Performance Appliances and Lighting
Selecting energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting further reduces energy consumption. Energy Star-rated
appliances and efficient lighting solutions contribute to lower utility bills and decreased overall energy demand.
Full Solar Roof
Roofs made of all photovoltaic panels, no shingles.
Generate 200% more energy than you need and sell it back to the grid.
Cooling
Natural Ventilation
Leveraging natural cross ventilation through well-placed openings allows fresh air to circulate, reducing the need
for energy-intensive mechanical cooling systems. This approach not only improves indoor air quality but also
offers substantial cost savings.
Thermal Mass
Incorporating stone or other high thermal mass materials outdoors helps fend off heat by absorbing it during the
day and releasing it at night, maintaining cooler temperatures inside.
Trees and Roof Overhangs
Strategically planting trees and incorporating large roof overhangs provide shade, reducing solar heat gain and
utilizing evapotranspiration to bring in cooler air.
Natural Ventilation
Heating
Radiant Floor Heating
Radiant floor heating maximizes energy efficiency by using water's high thermal mass to conduct and retain heat.
Coupled with stone floor finishes, it ensures a more consistent and cost-effective heating solution compared to
HVAC
or traditional heat pumps.
Heat Pumps
By integrating heat recovery and utilizing mini-split zoning, heat pumps can perform more efficiently. Pairing
them
with solar energy systems further lowers costs, especially with properly oriented full solar roofs.
Trees and Roof Overhangs
Strategically planting trees and incorporating large roof overhangs provide shade, reducing solar heat gain and
utilizing evapotranspiration to bring in cooler air.
Radiant Floor Heating
Heat materials, not air. At least 25% more efficient than HVAC.
Automatically regulate indoor temperatures
by using the high thermal mass of stone.
Keep your home cool with natural ventilation
and motorized shading.
Raised Technical Floor
Zero maintenance.
All technical systems run in the raised floor,
making pipes and wires directly accessible.
Never tear open a wall again.
Water
Rainwater Harvesting
Capturing and storing rainwater for non-potable uses, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry, reduces
reliance on municipal water supplies and conserves precious freshwater resources.
Grey Water Recycling
Monitoring and Automation
Implementing smart building systems and automation technologies allows for precise monitoring and control of
energy
use. Sensors and algorithms optimize energy efficiency by adjusting heating, cooling, lighting, and other systems
based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions.
High Performance Appliances and Lighting
Treating and reusing greywater from sinks, showers, and laundry for irrigation or other non-potable purposes
reduces
overall water consumption and wastewater generation.
Embrace the power of nature for cooling, heating and running your future home to save resources and reduce your
footprint.