The most effective way to promote energy efficiency is to design a house that takes full advantage of natural light, passive solar energy, shading, cross-ventilation, and efficient space planning. Doing so — by studying sun angles, prevailing winds, and general site orientation — reduces the overall energy load required to live comfortably.
Read MoreHad the distinct pleasure of touring Heron Hall, currently under construction, on Bainbridge Island earlier this afternoon. Was welcomed by Joss Krayenhoff, co-owner of SIREWALL USA. He's hosting a hands-on practicum, along side Jason McLennan, Owner/Architect of Heron Hall, creator of the Living Building Challenge & one of the most influential leaders in the green building movement.
While admiring the first SIREWALL revealed and thumbing through this unique home's floor plans, I was delighted to hear that Jason McLennan and his family had just arrived on site. Jason was kind enough to walk me through the various design features of his beautiful home.
Joss & team were busily forming up the Stair Tower. Jason explained that this particular location of the house was the central hub - utilities were home-run beneath the stair, family members would be traveling within and have a view out towards the entry drive to welcome guests, and all rainwater is directed to its rooftop for collection in nearby cisterns. As you travel vertically, views of the estuary marsh begin to open up.
This home is striving to meet all petal requirements of the Living Building Challenge, 'the worlds most progressive and stringent green building rating system'.
Inspiring all around!
Recently had the opportunity to attend a week-long course on Salt Spring Island, BC about SIREwalls. This wall system was developed and perfected by Meror Krayenhoff, a pioneer in green building in Canada in the 1990's. Since that time the system has been tested and refined in dozens of project around the world.
I was lucky enough to visit five very unique homes showcasing the beauty, sustainable benefits and durability of this fascinating wall system.
Joss Krayenhoff (Master Earth Mason and Co-Owner of Sirewall USA, LLC, ) has recently teamed up with Jason McLennan, one of the most influential individuals in the green building movement today and the recipient of the prestigious Buckminster Fuller Prize (the planet’s top prize for socially responsible design).
I'm excited to apply what I've learned very soon, in collaboration with these inspirational visionaries.
