This project features many beautiful and sustainable design elements.  It is much greener than most new houses, though the owners elected not to submit it for certification under the LEED Homes or other green building standards.  

The L-shaped plan and large openings create living spaces that are filled with daylight and perfect for natural ventilation.  Rooftop gardens and planters on multiple levels extend the landscape upwards, creating a richly interconnected composition of planted terraces.  These vegetated rooftops also help shade and insulate the dwelling.  

The walls of the house are constructed using engineered wooden I-beams to limit thermal bridging.  A hybrid system of spray foam and cotton batt insulation in the walls create a tight air seal and terhnal performance in excess of R-30.  The roof, foamed solid, has an R-50 insulation value.  Double glazing and insulated channel glass fenestration complete this remarkable envelope.  Windows are protected from excessive solar heating by computer controlled retractable blinds.  

The ultra-efficient mechanical systems of the house include a ground source heat pump, radiant floor heating, and energy recovery ventilators.  Renewable energy to drive these systems is provided by a 5kW photovoltaic array on the roof.