LEED FOR HOMES WHOLE HOUSE REMODEL

The owners of this home are very environmentally conscious. As a result, they were motivated to pursue the LEED for Homes process, with the goal of achieving LEED Platinum – the highest rating possible. The finished 4,365 sq. ft. remodel – designed by Thompson Naylor Architects, with interiors by Jessica Risko Smith Interior Design – has a rustic look, with a standing seam metal roof, board & batten siding, and stone veneer. everGREEN Landscape Architects designed the sustainable landscape.

Green features contributing to this home’s Platinum LEED for Homes Certification include:

Knowing that drought conditions are ever increasing in southern California, the owners and design team sought to aggressively address water conservation. Here are the main water-conserving features:

  • Attractive, low-flow water fixtures.

  • Underground stormwater infiltrators recharge the water table and capture 100% of runoff in a 1” storm.

  • Grey water irrigation provides for 99% of landscape needs.

  • A 1,250 gallon cistern in the crawl space below the house collects rainwater from the roof to supplement irrigation.

  • A 100% subsurface drip irrigation system means zero water waste to spray evaporation.

  • Drought adapted plants reduce the need for irrigation by over 50%. The use of buffalo grass requires 80% less water than a traditional lawn.

  • Pervious hardscape adds to stormwater infiltration.

Energy efficiency, comfort and healthy indoor quality were also a priority:

  • A 6.4 kW rooftop solar system provides almost all of the home’s electrical needs.

  • Solar panels also heat hot water for both domestic use and space heating needs.

  • Every part of this home is sealed and insulated to make it more energy efficient, saving the homeowners money on heating and cooling.

  • High efficiency lighting fixtures were selected for use throughout the home.

  • The kitchen and bathrooms feature low-flow shower heads, faucets and toilets which means saving a valuable resource (water), lower water bills for the homeowner as well as less energy used to heat water.

  • The air quality inside the home is healthier thanks to the elimination of toxic chemicals with the use of zero-VOC finishes, air and water filtration systems, and formaldehyde-free and PVC-free building materials.

  • Air quality is also improved with the use of a whole house ventilation system that brings outdoor air in.

  • There is lower potential for allergic reactions or asthma problems for the residents due to indoor moisture control, thereby prohibiting the growth of common molds.

Architect: Thompson Naylor Architects Designer: Jessica Risko Smith Landscape: EverGREEN Landscape Architects Photographer: Erin Feinblatt