Solar Santa Fe 3

Note: See Solar Santa Fe for perspective view.

Specifications: 956 sq. ft. interior, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, Footprint: 29′ x 45′ plus patio

Description: This is a three bedroom version of the Solar Santa Fe design. Both are designed to optimize passive solar. A tiled roof along the south side is sized to prevent overheating in summer, but allow maximum solar gain in winter. Quality detailing is evident throughout — open, comfortable layout, rough-hewn posts and vigas (round roof timbers), built-in bench and kiva-style fireplace (or wood stove insert). On the cooler east side is a large outdoor flagstone patio (not shown).

Solar Santa Fe 3 (click to enlarge)

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Zero Energy One

Zero Energy One (click to enlarge)

Specifications: 846 sq. ft. interior, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 36′ x 48′ not including cisterns

Description: Zero Energy One is a major step forward in sustainable housing. This revolutionary design features zero net energy use, extremely low ‘near zero’ embodied energy and extremely low cost of around $10/square foot (cost of shell, excluding energy systems). This design is the result of years of research in energy efficiency and low cost, alternative building methods.

In contrast, most zero energy homes are in the $1/4 million range, and utilize complex and expensive technologies that are unaffordable to the vast majority. In my opinion, these homes are not truly sustainable due to their size, cost, use of high embodied energy materials and complexity.

Zero net energy use: Optimized passive solar design, balanced superinsulation/thermal mass, earth sheltering, PV panels, solar hot water, airlock entries, wood stove with water jacket runs hot water through built-in bench and bed, solar wall oven, cool pantry, roofwater catchment, energy-efficient appliances, indoor herb and flower garden, optional composting toilet and greywater recycling.

Near zero embodied energy construction: Earthbag construction using recycled grain bags and other recycled materials, earth, gravel, scoria, earthen floors, earthen interior plaster, lime exterior plaster, rice hull roof insulation, recycled content metal roofing.

Ultra-low cost: Earthbag construction, recycled and locally obtained non-toxic natural materials, owner-builder friendly, low tech solutions.

Shown with optional Survival Shelter and concealed entry.

Optional living wall on exterior of south wall. Details coming soon.

Zero Energy One (click to enlarge)

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House of the Sun

House of the Sun

Specifications: 494 sq. ft. interior plus mechanical rooms, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 17′ x 59′

Description: This unique all solar design qualifies as a zero energy home. (For desert regions only.) The home is cooled with water trickling over the metal roofing using the same principle as found in the Desert Submarine. Solar panels on the west end power the water pumps, lights and other electrical needs. A solar hot water heater on the east end provides domestic hot water and hot water for radiant floor heat. Electronic controls regulate the flow of water to maintain interior temperatures. The main structure consists of open web steel trusses covered in metal roofing. Earthbag walls help keep the home comfortable year-round.

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