This long, thin house draws from the Prairie School style of archtecture, and updates it into energy efficient and low-toxin 'green' architecture. It features expansive views of Lake Monona and well-designed spaces from which to enjoy them.
Energy-design features include: an innovative wall design that uses recycled cellulose insulation plus an inner layer of rigid foam; high-performance windows; passive solar heating, and hydronic in-floor heating via a high-efficiency boiler which also heats the domestic hot water.
Above: Lake-facing patio, balcony and windows.
Tornadoes and High Water
Most homes in tornado-prone Wisconsin are built on full basements, and Wisconsinites take refuge below grade when the sirens sound. This home however is located in a high water-table lakefront area, and with with the basements of the adjacent homes chronically filled with water, we knew we needed a different solution for storm safety. This home incorporates an innovative emergency shelter, an above-grade "strong room" designed as a mini-version of the tornado-proof structures that are built for critical public infrastructure such as telephone relays and pumping stations. Our "strong room" doubles as the mechanical space.
Above: West elevation.
Left: Front Entry.
Wheelchair Access
The entry route, kitchen, bathroom and the entire first floor of the home are designed to comfortably accomodate wheelchair users.
This house achieved an EnergyStar rating of 91 (via the original HERS scale). The EnergyStar program is a national effort to objectively test and rate the energy efficiency and indoor air quality of homes.
