Low Energy Passive House

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Energy Use Intensity Score (EUI): __ kBTUH/sq. ft./yr. Coming soon.

Benefit:

Site: A lush, wooded high bank waterfront lot overlooking Port Orchard Bay with views of Washington State’s majestic Olympic Mountains.

Program: The owners of this existing 1970’s three bedroom (3,000 sq. ft.) home undertook a deep green energy retrofit and renovation of the great room, kitchen, master suite and guest suite. All mechanical, plumbing and lighting systems were updated to state-of-the-art systems.

Sustainable Solutions: The residence is approached from a shaded yard where cedar trees cast dappled light on basaltic stone slabs leading to the main entry porch. This entrance opens into the great room featuring (2) two-story glass walls with views toward the woods, water and mountains. Lighting was incorporated into the existing cedar ceiling. A maple tree slab was repurposed as a live edge counter top visually separating the kitchen from the dining area. The existing oak floors were refurbished and new cherry cabinetry was added throughout. Custom woodwork in cherry is by William Walker Woodworking.

The most striking feature of this Passive House Low Energy retrofit and remodel is the exterior cork siding that functions as both the insulation and as the siding material. The cork panel edges were rounded on site (with a router by the contractor) adding a unique detail that protects the edges of the cork panels from damage. Panels were attached with large head screws for ease of attachment and decorative detail. Double pane windows, double insulated walls, air sealing (with fluid applied membrane and joint tape) and minimizing thermal bridges were all incorporated into the remodel. The project’s other sustainable features include radiant floor heating, Mitsubishi heat pump, sustainable and reused materials, as well as natural and drought resistant plants.

Experience: A project of Kriegh Architecture Studios | Design + Research

Date: 2014, Smallwood Design and Construction