Environmental Considerations

• site protection, water pollutants
  • built on existing developed land
  • preserved existing native vegetation
  • retained all large trees on site
  • land below cliff left undisturbed
  • minimal regrading around house
  • vegetation removed was donated
  • no toxic form releasers used
  • no toxic materials used for hardscape
  • no zinc galvanized ridge cap
• water protection
  • landscape beds have 2" organic mulch
  • no turf grass
  • landscaped with plants appropriate for site, low water usage
  • subsurface drip irrigation used in 2 of 3 areas
  • most plumbing fixtures are rated for low water flow
  • all toilets meet low flush rating
  • hot water system uses recirculating pump
• environmental design concepts
  • south area designed to accommodate outdoor activities
• energy efficiency - envelope
  • attic insulated to R50
  • walls insulated with dense packed cellulose
  • passive solar design - large south facing windows
• heating
  • hydronic heating - minimal loss of heat during distribution
  • boiler - energy star 95% efficient
  • installed heat recovery ventilator
  • all hot water pipes insulated
  • separate thermostats for most rooms
• lighting
  • skylight brings natural light to interior space
  • all closets use fluorescent lighting
  • most light fixtures have dimmers
  • ceiling cans are air-lock design
• appliances
  • washer is front load
  • dishwashers - energy star
  • gas range and oven
• materials
  • carpet & pad is ??? rated
  • carpet is low pile
  • all cabinets and woodwork free of formaldehyde (except MDF in mech. room)
  • all interior paint low VOC
  • ceramic tile and stone used for flooring
  • materials selected with long life cycle
  • no endangered wood species used
  • doors made of domestically grown wood
  • floor finish is spot-reparable
• moisture control
  • exterior graded to drain water away from building
  • attic venting installed in eaves and upper area
  • windows recessed to reduce water contact
  • rain-screen technology in all exterior walls
  • all window headers have metal flashing
  • rigid perforated footing drain installed on most of perimeter
• recycle & reduce
  • prior structure partially deconstructed and recycled
  • building material scraps recycled to extent possible
  • most construction waste recycled
  • open plan for kitchen, dining, living reduces interior walls