Clients mandated a sustainability framework that began with green building and sustainability rating systems from various sources that evolved into an emphasis on the 2030 Challenge (an initiative to require zero carbon emissions in buildings by 2030). Our target energy usage was 50% of code required energy efficiency standards (an approved threshold target for 2006 within the 2030 challenge). From extensive energy modeling data, our strategy was to fine tune a high performance building shell and take advantage of building mass and below grade spaces. For increasing mass, we chose ICF walls, a high thermal mass masonry interior wall for the sanctuary room, and concrete floors with hydronic radiant heating. The main strategy implemented is a passive thermal chimney from basement and main floor to roof, HRV on all floors, and the elimination of an active air conditioning system. In addition to the energy efficient strategies, the owners selected local resourcing of materials and local craftsmanship to exemplify their commitment to support a local economy.

Contractor: John Fields
Design Team: Carlos Delgado Architect, Joyce Ward Architect, MichaelDavid Uri, Laurie Sager Landscape Architect, SolArc Mechanical Engineering