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Example of a mid-sized zen 3/4 green tile and subway tile concrete floor corner shower design in DC Metro with recessed-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, gray walls, an undermount sink, recycled glass countertops and green countertops
Sustainable Design Group
Sustainable Design Group
Average rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars13 ReviewsView Profile

Bethesda Earth Home

Asian Bathroom, DC Metro

This passive solar addition transformed this nondescript ranch house into an energy efficient, sunlit, passive solar home. The addition to the rear of the building was constructed of compressed earth blocks. These massive blocks were made on the site with the earth from the excavation. With the addition of foam insulation on the exterior, the wall becomes a thermal battery, allowing winter sun to heat the blocks during the day and release that heat at night. The house was built with only non toxic or natural materials. Heat and hot water are provided by a 94% efficient gas boiler which warms the radiant floor. A new wood fireplace is an 80% efficient, low emission unit. With Energy Star appliances and LED lighting, the energy consumption of this home is very low. The addition of infrastructure for future photovoltaic panels and solar hot water will allow energy consumption to approach zero.

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What Houzz contributors are saying
Becky Harris added this to 15 Ways to Warm Up Your Bathroom for WinterSeptember 27, 2013

Consider heated floors. One of the most luxurious things you can do to make your bathroom toasty in chilly weather is...

What Houzzers are commenting on
terisme added this to Lake HouseOctober 21, 2023

green, brown, earthy