|
 
One of the first in U.S.
The northwest Net Zero house is a custom, single family home in the Bellevue area of Washington. The term “Net Zero” means that it is a house whose systems are expected to generate as much energy and water as the family consumes on an annual basis. For its many “green” or sustainable features, it will achieve a platinum certification from the United States Green Building Council’s LEED® for Homes program.
The house was built for an active family. At just over 3300 SF, it is considered a moderately sized new home for its location. Its residents will experience the same functionality and comfort of residents living in any new high-end home. Through the development of a purposeful design, large and unused living spaces that require a lot of energy to heat are eliminated. The remaining spaces serve all of the needs of a modern family. No lifestyle compromises are made for living in a sustainably built and healthy home.
Along with the house’s on-site energy and water production and overall energy efficiency, it is also built to last through the use of many commercial grade products and methods not normally employed in a single family house. Building a home to last over a hundred years, as this one is intended to do, may be its greenest feature.
Construction methods and materials used were chosen to lessen the house’s impact on the earth. Nearly all construction waste was recycled. Sustainable materials such as lumber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, fly ash concrete mix, and advanced framing techniques reduce and conserve where conventional building practices do not. Where possible, locally sourced materials were specified.
Non-toxic and/or low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, stains, caulks, and sealants that reduce environmental impact were applied. These products also work, in combination with a HEPA filtered ventilation system, to create clean interior air quality for the residents. Poor indoor air quality is a much greater concern than outdoor and can lead to asthma and other respiratory problems. By adequately supplying a house with fresh air, filtration, and circulation these common respiratory problems are greatly reduced, according to the American Lung Association.
Builder: Thomas Jacobson, Thomas Jacobson Construction Inc, LEED Accredited Professional for homes
Architect: VELOCIPEDE architects inc, LEED AP
What is LEED®?The leadership in energy and environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System TM developed and managed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development practices through the creation and implementation of universally understood and accepted tools and performance criteria. Initially this program was developed for commercial structures.
What is the LEED® for Homes Program?What is the LEED® for Homes Program? Home building professionals and homeowners alike have been long awaiting the LEED for Homes Program. After piloting the program, it was formally launched in 2009 providing access to certification for building industry professionals. LEED for Homes is a rating system that promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. LEED homes use less energy, water and natural resources; create less waste; and are healthier for the occupants. Benefits of a LEED home include lower energy and water bills; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. The net cost of owning a LEED home can be comparable to that of owning a conventional home. For more information on LEED®: http://www.usgbc.org
|