This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
This 1750-square-foot, off-the-grid residence in the California Gold Country, outside the town of Murphys, was designed as a summer and winter vacation house for a San Francisco couple with two young children. The home is divided into “live” and “sleep” buildings, each about 875 square feet, which are sited to capture views. The gap between the buildings funnels breezes from the valley below. The courtyard is a calm, encompassing space for relaxation and play.
The house is remotely sited, quite far from the local utility grid. Satellite internet access allows the couple to telecommute when desired and spend longer periods of time in the country.
Cass Calder Smith designed the sustainability program in collaboration with the client. The features include:
• Structural slabs contain radiant heat
• Large overhangs that provide maximum shade in summer and allow passive heat gain and daylight during winter
• Windows and skylights with insulated, low-e glass; all are operable to admit maximum air ventilation during the summer for cooling. Opened at night, the windows allow cooler air to push heat out of the house. They are closed during the day to keep the house cool.
• The home's walls and roof are structurally insulated panels (SIPs),which not only are “structural” but have high insulative value, significantly higher than conventional construction.
• Larger, north-facing windows that provide maximum daylight without heat gain during summer; large southern overhangs minimize heat gain.
• Overhangs and arbor roofs have foil backing to reflect hot summer sun and also have solar vent fan to vent heat, keeping open exterior space underneath cool
• Energy provided by 24 PV panels with battery storage and backup propane generator
• Heating is provided by hydronic radiant when needed (powered by propane boiler) and by one high-efficiency wood burning stove in the “live” building
• Water is obtained through an on-site well-–pumped uphill to storage tank by photo voltaics and gravity-fed to house
• Siding and underside of soffits is natural cedar with penetrating oil
• Paints are low VOC and flooring material is polished concrete with rugs
LOCATION: Murphys, CA
TYPE: New Residence
SIZE: 1,750 SQ FT
COMPLETED: January 2009
ARCHITECTURAL TEAM
DESIGN PRINCIPAL: CASS SMITH
PROJECT ARCHITECT: SEAN KENNEDY
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BOUCHER BROS. CUSTOM HOMES
CONSULTANTS
GEO-TECHNICAL: KLEINFELDER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: GEDDINGS ENGINEERING
SOLAR CONSULTANT: SOL SIERRA SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
LANDSCAPING: SONOMA MISSION GARDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENDAN MACRAE
