This duplex, designed for a typical 50’x140’ downtown lot in the arts district, is a study of building with ecological sensitivity at its core. Each unit is a one bedroom, one bath unit with its own private open space. Also provided within each unit is an area designated for an artist’s work space that opens onto a shared courtyard. These living units have integrated a variety of sustainable building strategies into a wholistic design with the purpose of eliminating the need to draw any of its own electrical power from the grid.

SIPs (structural insulated panels) and insulated concrete block make up the basic structural system. SIPs were chosen for their quick erection process, high energy efficiency, and minimal waste created during construction. Insulated concrete block was also used for its energy efficiency as well as its ability to provide warmth and texture to the interior spaces without the need of any additional surface treatments.

The building’s dimensional configuration was carefully managed to match standard building material modules to eliminate unnecessary waste and simplify the construction process. Large overhangs that protect wall surfaces and windows from direct sunlight and operable clerestory windows that allow natural cross-ventilation and passive cooling techniques and to take place are only a couple of the design strategies used to diminish the dependence on artificial lighting and mechanical systems.

Lastly, photovoltaic panels have been installed on the roof surface to provide the building with whatever amount of electricity does become needed. Other key sustainable building strategies include the use of a grey water system for reusing bath and sink water in the toilets and landscape irrigation, low flow plumbing fixtures, efficient tankless water heaters, energy star appliances, and drought tolerant plant materials.