Search results for "Reduce efficiently" in Home Design Ideas

This 3 BR, 3 1/2 bath home allows the owners to live on one level most of the time. The Master Suite is on the main level along with the Living Room, Kitchen, Dining, pantries, Sun Room and service areas. The upper level houses two ample bedrooms while the lower level supports a rec center, media room, wine cellar, shop and full wet bar. Conceived as a Great Room house, the main level is designed as one seamless space that flows onto an ample deck overlooking the rear yard.
We also incorporated a variety of green building techniques - photo-voltaic shingles on the roof of the garage to generate a portion of the home's energy, a super insulated building envelope, rain water harvesting, high performance windows and doors, a high efficiency heat pump, low flow bath & kitchen fixtures, Energy Star appliances and LED lighting - that greatly reduced this structure's carbon footprint. All of the strategies amounted to a 30% reduction in the energy consumption in this home relative to comparable structures.

This project highlights a high-impact exterior upgrade for a residential property flip in Philadelphia, featuring modern white vinyl siding paired with bold black window trim for maximum resale appeal.
Designed with ROI in mind, this siding installation transforms an older structure into a clean, contemporary asset that stands out in today’s competitive real estate market. Clean lines, neutral tones, and sharp contrast help attract buyers and increase perceived value.
Scope included full exterior prep on an existing home and efficient installation of durable, low-maintenance vinyl siding, ideal for long-term performance with minimal upkeep—perfect for investors looking to reduce future costs.
The front entry and porch were upgraded to create a strong first impression, while large window layouts enhance natural light and buyer appeal.
This project is a prime example of strategic exterior renovation for house flips, rental properties, and investment portfolios, delivering both visual impact and practical durability.
✅ Investor-friendly timelines & pricing
✅ Serving Philadelphia & Montgomery County
✅ Experienced with flips, rentals, and resale-focused renovations

Recently Tudor Mechanical team installed Mitsubishi 42K BTU 5-Zone Heat Pump Unit for a new customer in Westchester county Ny. If you want to get this unit installed with professional and specialized technicians then you are one call away. Our specialized and professional technicians will install this unit and other units whenever you want with best price on market. Our technicians have PHD on HVAC and are insured. Mitsubishi (MXZ-5C42NA*) is an extremely efficient unit that can connect to a variety of indoor unit types and can handle three zones (indoor units). This outdoor unit allows you to connect a wide variety of indoor units ranging up to 53,300 BTU.
Blue Fin anti-corrosion treatment applied to heat exchanger for increased coil protection and longer life.
The outdoor unit powers the indoor units, and should a power outage occur, the system is automatically restarted when power returns.
Quiet outdoor unit operation
Intelligent Power Module (IPM) for reduced power loss
High pressure switch for additional protection.
Your comfort is our pleasure!
Tudor Mechanical Your Climate Partner!
Find the right local pro for your project

This project highlights a high-impact exterior upgrade for a residential property flip in Philadelphia, featuring modern white vinyl siding paired with bold black window trim for maximum resale appeal.
Designed with ROI in mind, this siding installation transforms an older structure into a clean, contemporary asset that stands out in today’s competitive real estate market. Clean lines, neutral tones, and sharp contrast help attract buyers and increase perceived value.
Scope included full exterior prep on an existing home and efficient installation of durable, low-maintenance vinyl siding, ideal for long-term performance with minimal upkeep—perfect for investors looking to reduce future costs.
The front entry and porch were upgraded to create a strong first impression, while large window layouts enhance natural light and buyer appeal.
This project is a prime example of strategic exterior renovation for house flips, rental properties, and investment portfolios, delivering both visual impact and practical durability.
✅ Investor-friendly timelines & pricing
✅ Serving Philadelphia & Montgomery County
✅ Experienced with flips, rentals, and resale-focused renovations

The A18 Residence is a townhouse renovation project located in the southern part of New Delhi. team3 was tasked with transforming the facade while minimising modifications to create a visually appealing and functional space that provides residents with a sense of peace and tranquillity.
Blurring the Boundaries Between Indoors and Outdoors
The driving force behind the project was to seamlessly infuse green elements into the building’s living spaces. This was achieved through a transparent living space that harmoniously bridges the divide between the interiors and the natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors allow for maximum natural light and ventilation, creating a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. These windows are double-paned to help reduce noise pollution.
A defining feature of the project is its fully planted facade. A pragmatic approach was adopted to ensure the vitality of the greens. Plants are placed to be accessed via the staircase with landings to the balconies, avoiding the need to cross through the rooms for maintenance and sharing the responsibility of upkeep.
Effective Zoning to Enhance Functionality
The property's strategic location presented a dual-faced scenario, overlooking a small park at the rear and fronting a busy main road. To address the latter, a green strip and a service road were introduced as buffers to minimise noise intrusion. The green strip was designed to be unobtrusive, using low-maintenance materials and native plants that require minimal watering. The planted facade also adds a level of protection shielding the indoor environment from the noise and pollution of the adjoining road.
Sustainable Design with Shared Amenities and Accessible Maintenance
The A18 Residence is a single-family home designed for a family of four. The design process was collaborative, with the clients deeply engaged due to their keen interest in architectural aesthetics and sustainability. This collaboration led to the introduction of shared, energy-efficient amenities and resources, fostering efficiency. A terrace garden maintained with harvested rainwater also acts as a communal area for the family.
The balconies have been thoughtfully designed with an external staircase for convenient access and maintenance without compromising residents' privacy. The project unfolded organically across its various levels. On the ground floor, residents enjoy greenery from both front and rear gardens, offering a dynamic connection with nature. The first floor features a continuous living space that seamlessly merges with the lush surroundings. On the third floor, a strategically positioned courtyard artfully links to the rooftop terrace garden, extending the green narrative and providing panoramic views and a tangible connection to nature.
Solar panels on the roof provide electricity for common areas, while a rainwater harvesting system collects rainwater for irrigation. These features help to reduce the project's environmental impact and create a more sustainable urban lifestyle for its residents.
Blending Simplicity, Functionality, and Natural Light
The interiors of the A18 Residence are designed to complement the overall aesthetic of the project, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The open-plan living space is flooded with natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Spacious, well-lit bedrooms feature private balconies that offer stunning views of the surrounding greenery. The landscape is an integral part of the design, providing residents with a tranquil oasis in the city.
The A18 Residence stands as an example of how innovative design and a collaborative approach can transform an existing building into a thriving urban oasis. Its focus on sustainability, functionality, and connection to nature makes it a model for sustainable living in the city.

Pipex.ai is an example of an efficient sourcing option through a reliable B2B platform, where buyers can search for relevant components of intricate piping systems. The bleed ring flange can be used between two flanges to provide a safe way to measure the pressure, sample the fluid, and vent the pipeline without breaking the pipeline. This element is also extensively used in oil and gas, refineries, petrochemical plants, and power plants, where the aspects of operational safety and control are paramount. A buyer can also compare specifications, compliance information, and order certified bleed ring flanges that would fit in the high-pressure, high-temperature environment and ensure the system reliability, maintenance control, and continuous industrial processes.
In case of critical pipeline installations, the Bleed Ring Flanges Manufacturers prepare components that are built to fit between normal flanges without pressure reduction. The bleed ring flange will enable the controlled monitoring and isolation, which will reduce downtime even when inspection or sampling is in progress. A B2B Portal assists buyers in accessing qualified suppliers that will supply the products and materials that have been machined correctly, and a reliable supply. Adequate selection of the Bleed Ring Flange of the system would enhance safety precautions, system diagnostics, and add to the future efficacy of the systems, hence a required change in the case of industries operating with pressurized and hazardous media.

This landscape lighting upgrade project in Palm Coast, Florida transformed an aging outdoor lighting system into a modern, energy-efficient LED system designed for improved performance, reliability, and nighttime curb appeal.
The project included replacing outdated fixtures, upgrading lamps to long-lasting LED technology, improving light distribution, and optimizing the system for enhanced architectural, landscape, and pathway illumination. The new lighting design delivers brighter, more consistent light while reducing maintenance requirements and energy consumption.
Designed for Florida's coastal environment, the upgraded system provides lasting durability against humidity, salt air, and harsh weather conditions while creating a beautiful nighttime appearance that enhances safety, visibility, and outdoor enjoyment.
Palm Coast Landscape Lighting specializes in landscape lighting upgrades, LED conversions, repairs, and custom low-voltage lighting systems throughout Palm Coast, Flagler Beach, The Hammock, Ormond Beach, and St. Augustine.
Transform Your Home After Sunset.
Built for Florida. Designed to Last.

This project highlights a high-impact exterior upgrade for a residential property flip in Philadelphia, featuring modern white vinyl siding paired with bold black window trim for maximum resale appeal.
Designed with ROI in mind, this siding installation transforms an older structure into a clean, contemporary asset that stands out in today’s competitive real estate market. Clean lines, neutral tones, and sharp contrast help attract buyers and increase perceived value.
Scope included full exterior prep on an existing home and efficient installation of durable, low-maintenance vinyl siding, ideal for long-term performance with minimal upkeep—perfect for investors looking to reduce future costs.
The front entry and porch were upgraded to create a strong first impression, while large window layouts enhance natural light and buyer appeal.
This project is a prime example of strategic exterior renovation for house flips, rental properties, and investment portfolios, delivering both visual impact and practical durability.
✅ Investor-friendly timelines & pricing
✅ Serving Philadelphia & Montgomery County
✅ Experienced with flips, rentals, and resale-focused renovations

Automated Home Lighting: Revolutionize Your Home with Smart Lighting Solutions
Transform your living space with automated home lighting, the latest innovation in smart home technology. Automated lighting systems provide convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security for homeowners. With smart lighting solutions, you can control your home's lighting from anywhere using voice commands, motion, smartphone app, , or automated schedules.
Benefits of Automated Home Lighting
Energy Efficiency: Save on energy bills by using smart bulbs and automated lighting controls that adjust brightness based on natural light or occupancy.
Convenience: Easily manage your home's lighting with smart home integration, including compatibility with Josh AI, Control 4, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other voice-activated systems.
Enhanced Security: Program your lights to turn on and off at specific times to give the appearance of occupancy, even when you're away, deterring potential intruders.
Customization: Create personalized lighting scenes for different moods and activities, such as reading, watching movies, or hosting a dinner party.
Features of Smart Lighting Systems
Remote Control: Adjust lighting settings from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet.
Voice Activation: Use voice commands to control your lights with popular smart home assistants like Josh AI, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Scheduling: Set schedules for your lights to turn on and off at specific times, enhancing convenience and security.
Energy Monitoring: Track energy usage and optimize lighting to reduce your carbon footprint.
Why Choose Automated Home Lighting?
Investing in automated home lighting not only adds convenience and style to your home but also increases its value. Smart lighting systems are easy to install and can be customized to meet your unique needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to improve energy efficiency, enhance home security, or simply enjoy the convenience of modern technology, automated home lighting is the perfect solution.

Photo credit Michael Moran.
The design for this client’s “dream house on the water” capitalizes on every opportunity to incorporate views of the Long Island Sound within the home. The placement and expanse of the fir windows and sliding doors underscore the water’s proximity. The interior gathering space spills out onto the raised outdoor deck and lap pool overlooking the seawall. Reducing the house’s carbon footprint is another priority, accomplished by generating renewable energy on site. The precise angle of the house on the property is calculated for optimal solar energy production by the rooftop photovoltaic panels and a geothermal system installed under the driveway provides heating and cooling for the house.
Due to the fact that the site is located on a floodplain, the ground floor of the house is raised and no basement is allowed. This presents a challenge in terms of carving out enough storage space in the main house that one might normally relegate to a basement. Rooms are efficiently sized and serve multiple functions and storage is built-in wherever possible.

AFTER...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

Photo credit Michael Moran.
The design for this client’s “dream house on the water” capitalizes on every opportunity to incorporate views of the Long Island Sound within the home. The placement and expanse of the fir windows and sliding doors underscore the water’s proximity. The interior gathering space spills out onto the raised outdoor deck and lap pool overlooking the seawall. Reducing the house’s carbon footprint is another priority, accomplished by generating renewable energy on site. The precise angle of the house on the property is calculated for optimal solar energy production by the rooftop photovoltaic panels and a geothermal system installed under the driveway provides heating and cooling for the house.
Due to the fact that the site is located on a floodplain, the ground floor of the house is raised and no basement is allowed. This presents a challenge in terms of carving out enough storage space in the main house that one might normally relegate to a basement. Rooms are efficiently sized and serve multiple functions and storage is built-in wherever possible.

AFTER...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

BEFORE...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

BEFORE...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

AFTER...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

Louisa, San Clemente Coastal Modern Architecture
The brief for this modern coastal home was to create a place where the clients and their children and their families could gather to enjoy all the beauty of living in Southern California. Maximizing the lot was key to unlocking the potential of this property so the decision was made to excavate the entire property to allow natural light and ventilation to circulate through the lower level of the home.
A courtyard with a green wall and olive tree act as the lung for the building as the coastal breeze brings fresh air in and circulates out the old through the courtyard.
The concept for the home was to be living on a deck, so the large expanse of glass doors fold away to allow a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoors and feeling of being out on the deck is felt on the interior. A huge cantilevered beam in the roof allows for corner to completely disappear as the home looks to a beautiful ocean view and Dana Point harbor in the distance. All of the spaces throughout the home have a connection to the outdoors and this creates a light, bright and healthy environment.
Passive design principles were employed to ensure the building is as energy efficient as possible. Solar panels keep the building off the grid and and deep overhangs help in reducing the solar heat gains of the building. Ultimately this home has become a place that the families can all enjoy together as the grand kids create those memories of spending time at the beach.
Images and Video by Aandid Media.

BEFORE...
Amazing Backyard Transformations! Pool Renovation from dull to Dazzling!
This amazing transformation is the result of a pool renovation by Paragon Pools in Las Vegas.
The homeowner was seeking to update the pool with a more vibrant look. The pool renovation included a redesign of the spa spillway, new tile, new interior finish, and flagstone accents on the spa, spa steps, and seating bench.
Before and after photos.
Designers:
Joseph Michael Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Fellow, PHTA Builder of the Year 2012
Joseph Anthony Vassallo, CBP, PHTA Builder of the Year 2021
If your pool is more than 10 years old… you could benefit from a pool renovation.
New technology:
• Reduce utility consumption with energy efficient equipment, LED lights, and remote connectivity with smart phone app
• Better health by reducing chemical use with the introduction of UV and Ozone water quality systems and
• Improve safety with the latest safety devices and by replacing old drains with VGB compliant drains
What about an overall facelift to enhance the appearance and versatility of the backyard space.
• Is the interior finish/plaster chipping or stained?
• Do you have missing, cracked, or calcified tile?
• Discolored, uneven, or chipped decks?
• Water features that no longer work?
• Do you lack in-pool sitting space for your family and guests?
• Have you dreamed of having a wet deck to place a lounger on?
• Would you love to have a swim up bar for entertaining?
Serving these areas and communities: Lake Las Vegas * Boulder City * Henderson * Seven Hills * Anthem * MacDonald Highlands * MacDonald Ranch * Silverado Ranch * Green Valley Ranch * Inspirada * Southern Highlands * Summerlin * Sun City * Aliante * North Las Vegas * Sky Canyon * Centennial Hills * Providence * Spring Valley * Paradise, and others.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood.
INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site.
EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot.
THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place.
HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde.
YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements.
RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage.
OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet.
ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer
Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor
Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering
Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design
Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

Photo credit Michael Moran.
The design for this client’s “dream house on the water” capitalizes on every opportunity to incorporate views of the Long Island Sound within the home. The placement and expanse of the fir windows and sliding doors underscore the water’s proximity. The interior gathering space spills out onto the raised outdoor deck and lap pool overlooking the seawall. Reducing the house’s carbon footprint is another priority, accomplished by generating renewable energy on site. The precise angle of the house on the property is calculated for optimal solar energy production by the rooftop photovoltaic panels and a geothermal system installed under the driveway provides heating and cooling for the house.
Due to the fact that the site is located on a floodplain, the ground floor of the house is raised and no basement is allowed. This presents a challenge in terms of carving out enough storage space in the main house that one might normally relegate to a basement. Rooms are efficiently sized and serve multiple functions and storage is built-in wherever possible.
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