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High Performance Houses in a world of uncertainty. Houses of the future, today.
We’re in a time when we are facing the idea that systems we live within are precarious. This blog post talks about what changes you can make to future-proof your home against uncertainty and changing conditions. If you’re planning to build, this is the perfect time to think and make changes to your design in preparation.
Fire, Water, Air, Earth: Aesthetic of the Thomas House Project
The “Thomas House Project” was designed based on the aesthetic theme of fire, water, earth, and air. The four elements were tied into this passive solar, net zero home both inside and out.
"Our Journey to Net Zero" - How a Lethbridge family constructed their high performance home
Our journey to Net-Zero began when my wife and I moved in 2011 from our first home to a newer, similar-sized home. After a few months, we were shocked to find that our energy bills had more than doubled. After a few years of tolerating the higher costs, we decided to build new and to a high energy efficiency standard…
Every Day is Earth Day (in a Passive Net Zero House)
Today we explore Earth Day in Alberta and what that means for our Passive, Net Zero home, energy sources and emissions! Cautiously Optimistic Earth Day!
How Low Can We Go?
Modelling round number 2 is complete and we have fine tuned exactly how little energy the Thomas House will be using! We touch on Alberta's energy grid and what to consider when sourcing your homes energy for heat and electricity.
Building Envelope of Justice
The framing is complete on the Thomas House Project! The building envelope, vapour/air barrier and weatherproofing strategies are now being implemented, but not without some learning lessons.
How Low Can We Go?
Modelling is complete and we know exactly how little energy the Thomas House will be using! Also, we're finalizing the details on our windows, which took much more effort than we realized.
Energy is Everything
Our initial modelling came out pretty good, but we can tighten it up! As well, we consider different heating options for a very efficient home, while considering the impact our heating systems will have on our future solar photovoltaic system.
Breaking Earth
Breaking ground - the initial considerations and steps for Alberta's first off-grid, Passive Net-zero home.