Sustainable Renovation for Architect’s 1958 House
An old 1958 house was acquired by a couple of architects, Jim and Nancy Paul. It was then renovated totally in sustainable way, that 75-80% of the original materials were retained. Some sustainable features were then added.
The sustainable renovated house should be post and beam look, but the owners don’t want to use any precious and scarce materials like Douglas Fir. Ordinary spruce and pine were used here, combined by new framing material.
Some additions were also done for this eco friendly house. Two office rooms and some bedrooms were added to cover the family. The upper level is used for office, master bedroom, family room, and principal living spaces, while the lower level covers spaces for the kids, including the recreation room.
Some sustainable features were added for this sustainable house, especially to minimize the energy needs. Insulation materials were chosen carefully and they consists of several layers to achieve a total R value of 21.5. The other features, such as a high-efficiency gas furnace and water heater, CFLs and LEDs, and lighting on dimmers and timers, etc were added to achieve high sustainability. To provide natural day-lighting, skylights and big windows with low E glazing take the role. Hidden rain gutters provide a direct way of rain water to the gravel drainage swales around the home.
