Project Size: 1,500 square feet

Intended as a secondary residence and retreat in the Gulf Islands, this compact home was designed to minimize its environmental impact by featuring durable materials as well as energy/water efficient systems and fixtures. High performance wall and window assemblies along with durable cladding materials like hardy plank and recycled aluminum were explored as potential rainscreens for the home. Rainwater retention and greywater systems along with water-efficient plumbing fixtures such as dual-flush toilets and low-flow showerheads were implemented to manage and reduce water usage. The home is sited to maximize natural daylighting and passive solar heating, and was designed to use geothermal heating/cooling. Energy efficient bulbs and fixtures would help to minimize heating and cooling loads as well as overall energy use. Currently still under development, this home is a study in treading lightly on the natural assets of a breathtaking site.