LEED Certification Level: V4 Builder: BPC Green Builders, LLC Architect: Trillium Architects The Taft School faculty home serves as a high performance residence and learning lab for students. The project also earned certification through ENERGY STAR, Indoor airPLUS, Water Sense, PHIUS, and Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Homes with Living Building Challenge Petal recognition pending. The project team was honored with third place in the 2014 Connecticut Zero Energy Home Challenge. Excluding the photovoltaic installation the HERS index was 33, and with the 13.1 kW the HERS index is -14. A year of utility bills show the home is producing more electricity than it uses. Located on a quiet street adjacent to campus the existing, historic home was deconstructed and materials donated or reused where possible. Challenged to find high efficiency windows that were historic commission acceptable, the team installed Klearwall awnings or casements over fixed glass (to mimic double hungs) with simulated divided lites (u-values as low as 0.13). A high solar heat gain coefficient (0.58) facilitates the passive solar gain for winter months, while well designed overhangs and a pergola shade summer sun. Double stud walls have 2¼” closed cell foam plus 8½” dense pack cellulose for a R-49 cavity. The exterior sheathing is R-6.6 Zip Wall System with taped seams to create the continuous air barrier. Inside the solid concrete foundation is 3” closed cell foam behind 2x4 stud walls and R-32 cellulose in the cavity. Prefabricated TJI joists frame the attic floor, an insulated “room” houses the heat recovery ventilator and ductwork, and blown in cellulose blankets it all in R-86. The house tested 0.6ACH50 proving the effectiveness of its air-tight envelope and attention to air sealing. Heating and cooling is provided by efficient air source heat pumps (9.2 HSPF, 16.5 SEER) and delivered by short duct runs which tested extremely tight. A heat pump water heater provides domestic hot water and an on-demand switch, with an occupancy sensor at each bath, ensures hot water is delivered fast and efficiently. Low flow fixtures are WaterSense certified, appliances are Energy Star labeled, and all LED lighting. A Zehnder Novus 300 (93.3% efficient) HRV supplies 112 cfm of continuous fresh air while using only 32 watts of power and running quietly. The homeowners control the mechanical ventilation through the intuitive wall-mounted control pad to shut off or increase the ventilation. Chemicals and contaminants were reduced by using low VOC and GreenGuard certified sealants, adhesives, primers, and paints. A walk-off matt at the side entry and hardwood floors help control dirt and dust. The granite front steps were salvaged and local stone used for the patio and stone walls. Storm water runoff from the roof, patio, and driveway is managed by the rain garden. The native landscaping is low maintenance, a community garden produces vegetables, and the chicken coop is powered by its own roof mounted PV panels. Taft School Director of Environmental Stewardship, Carly Borken has used the design and construction process as a teaching tool for her science classes. With access to the home monitoring system they can virtually access the residents’ consumption.

Why transFORM one closet when you can transFORM them all? Earlier this year a Scarsdale couple decided to completely renovate their stone tudor, located in the Heart of Fox Meadow. Naturally, the repeat customers called upon transFORM’s Senior Designer, Ileen Greenberg, to revamp a variety of closets throughout the home, including the front foyer closet, hallway utility closet, basement storage closet, second bedroom closet and of course, the master walk-in closet. The Master Walk-In Closet was custom crafted, meticulously manufactured and intricately installed to fit the allotted space. Doubled as a dressing room, this area includes a ton of storage options like tilt-out hampers, front-to-back valet rods, velvet lined jewelry drawers, open and closed adjustable shelving, drawers and more. Wide slanted and flat shoe shelves were installed, allowing the homeowner to identify and grab their favorite footwear quickly and easily. As you can see, decorative cabinet doors, a large custom mirror, base trim molding and crown molding create a sophisticated and classic space you won't want to leave. Ileen also emphasized the importance of good lighting to enhance these newly designed features. Specifically, the closet was equipped with a combination of LED lighting like under-mounted shelf lights and sensor activated drawer lights to make the contents of the dressing room fully visible. Melamine was the material of choice - it's always an attractive option for closets due to its durability. It’s extremely difficult to scratch, and very easy to clean. Overall, a truly exceptional job by Ileen and the transFORM team!

Welcome to Mosaic Walk, modern and energy efficient living in the heart of Orange County, very close to the 5, 22, and 57 freeways. This beautiful end-unit townhome was built in 2011 and features 3 levels and 1,347 sf of living space. The main level is located on the 2nd floor with powder room, large living room and adjacent dining area, private balcony and modern kitchen with large pantry and lots of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. The bedrooms and laundry closet are located on the third floor. The private master suite has a spacious master bathroom with walk-in closet, marble dual vanity and rainshower. The 2nd bedroom also has a private full bathroom. Cut down your utility bills in this LEED Certified home with tank-less water heater, dual glazed windows with low e glass, auto shut-off motion sensors in all baths, water efficient toilets, ceiling fans, and LEED certified construction. The downstairs area has a 2 car tandem garage attached to a large and inviting entry area w/coat closet. Other features include a security system and central air conditioning and heating. Mosaic Walk has fantastic amenities including a private pool and spa with sun deck and cabanas as well as courtyards with relaxing water features.

These South Shore homeowners desired a fresh look for their kitchen that was efficient and functional with a design worthy of showing off to family and friends. They also wished for more natural light, increased floor area and better countertop work space allowing for ease of preparation and cooking. The Renovisions team began the remodel by installing a larger (5’) window over the sink area which overlooks the beautiful backyard. Additional countertop workspace was achieved by utilizing the corner and installing a GE induction cooktop and stainless steel hood. This solution was spot on spectacular! Renovisions discussed the importance of adding lighting fixtures and the homeowners agreed. Under cabinet lighting was installed under wall cabinets with switch as well as two pendants over the peninsula and one pendant over the sink. It also made good design sense to add additional recessed ceiling fixtures with LED lights and trims that blend well with the ceiling. The project came together beautifully and boasts gorgeous shaker styled cherry cabinetry with glass mullian doors. The separate desk area serves as a much needed office/organizational area for keys, mail and electronic charging. A lovely backsplash of Tuscan-clay-look porcelain tile in 4”x8” brick pattern and diagonal tile with decorative metal-look accent tiles serves an eye-catching design detail. We created interest without being overdone. A large rectangular under-mounted ‘chef’ sink in stainless steel finish was the way to go here to accommodate larger pots and pans and platters. The creamy color marble like durable yet beautiful quartz countertops created a soft tone for the kitchens overall aesthetic look. Simple, pretty details give the cherry cabinets understated elegance and the mix of textures makes the room feel welcoming. Our client can’t wait to start preparing her favorite recipes for her family.

Farmhouse Reinvented - Interior Design Project in Marlboro, New York Design: Duncan Avenue // Maxwell & Dino Alexander Construction: ToughConstruct | Hudson Valley Welcome to the historic (circa 1870) Hudson Valley Farmhouse in the heart of legendary Marlboro, NY. It has been completely reimagined by the Award-Winning Duncan Avenue Design Studio and has become an inspiring, stylish and extremely comfortable zero-emissions 21st century smart home just minutes away from NYC. Situated on top of a hill and an acre of picturesque landscape, it could become your turnkey second-home, a vacation home, rental or investment property, or an authentic Hudson Valley Style dream home for generations to come. The Farmhouse has been renovated with style, design, sustainability, functionality, and comfort in mind and incorporates more than a dozen smart technology, energy efficiency, and sustainability features. Contemporary open concept floorplan, glass french doors and 210° wraparound porch with 3-season outdoor dining space blur the line between indoor and outdoor living and allow residents and guests to enjoy a true connection with surrounding nature. Wake up to the sunrise shining through double glass doors on the east side of the house and watch the warm sunset rays shining through plenty of energy-efficient windows and french doors on the west. High-end finishes such as sustainable bamboo hardwood floors, sustainable concrete countertops, solid wood kitchen cabinets with soft closing drawers, energy star stainless steel appliances, and designer light fixtures are only a few of the updates along with a brand-new central HVAC heat pump system controlled by smart Nest thermostat with two-zone sensors. Brand new roof, utilities, and all LED lighting bring additional value and comfort for many years to come. The property features a beautiful designer pergola on the edge of the hill with an opportunity for the in-ground infinity pool. Property's sun number is 91 and is all set for installation of your own solar farm that will take the property go 100% off-grid. Superior quality renovation, energy-efficient smart utilities, world-class interior design, sustainable materials, and Authentic Hudson Valley Style make this unique property a true real estate gem and once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity to own a turnkey second-home and a piece of the Hudson Valley history.

Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Detroit.

Welcome to Mosaic Walk, modern and energy efficient living in the heart of Orange County, very close to the 5, 22, and 57 freeways. This beautiful end-unit townhome was built in 2011 and features 3 levels and 1,347 sf of living space. The main level is located on the 2nd floor with powder room, large living room and adjacent dining area, private balcony and modern kitchen with large pantry and lots of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. The bedrooms and laundry closet are located on the third floor. The private master suite has a spacious master bathroom with walk-in closet, marble dual vanity and rainshower. The 2nd bedroom also has a private full bathroom. Cut down your utility bills in this LEED Certified home with tank-less water heater, dual glazed windows with low e glass, auto shut-off motion sensors in all baths, water efficient toilets, ceiling fans, and LEED certified construction. The downstairs area has a 2 car tandem garage attached to a large and inviting entry area w/coat closet. Other features include a security system and central air conditioning and heating. Mosaic Walk has fantastic amenities including a private pool and spa with sun deck and cabanas as well as courtyards with relaxing water features.

Farmhouse Reinvented - Interior Design Project in Marlboro, New York Design: Duncan Avenue // Maxwell & Dino Alexander Construction: ToughConstruct | Hudson Valley Welcome to the historic (circa 1870) Hudson Valley Farmhouse in the heart of legendary Marlboro, NY. It has been completely reimagined by the Award-Winning Duncan Avenue Design Studio and has become an inspiring, stylish and extremely comfortable zero-emissions 21st century smart home just minutes away from NYC. Situated on top of a hill and an acre of picturesque landscape, it could become your turnkey second-home, a vacation home, rental or investment property, or an authentic Hudson Valley Style dream home for generations to come. The Farmhouse has been renovated with style, design, sustainability, functionality, and comfort in mind and incorporates more than a dozen smart technology, energy efficiency, and sustainability features. Contemporary open concept floorplan, glass french doors and 210° wraparound porch with 3-season outdoor dining space blur the line between indoor and outdoor living and allow residents and guests to enjoy a true connection with surrounding nature. Wake up to the sunrise shining through double glass doors on the east side of the house and watch the warm sunset rays shining through plenty of energy-efficient windows and french doors on the west. High-end finishes such as sustainable bamboo hardwood floors, sustainable concrete countertops, solid wood kitchen cabinets with soft closing drawers, energy star stainless steel appliances, and designer light fixtures are only a few of the updates along with a brand-new central HVAC heat pump system controlled by smart Nest thermostat with two-zone sensors. Brand new roof, utilities, and all LED lighting bring additional value and comfort for many years to come. The property features a beautiful designer pergola on the edge of the hill with an opportunity for the in-ground infinity pool. Property's sun number is 91 and is all set for installation of your own solar farm that will take the property go 100% off-grid. Superior quality renovation, energy-efficient smart utilities, world-class interior design, sustainable materials, and Authentic Hudson Valley Style make this unique property a true real estate gem and once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity to own a turnkey second-home and a piece of the Hudson Valley history.

Welcome to Mosaic Walk, modern and energy efficient living in the heart of Orange County, very close to the 5, 22, and 57 freeways. This beautiful end-unit townhome was built in 2011 and features 3 levels and 1,347 sf of living space. The main level is located on the 2nd floor with powder room, large living room and adjacent dining area, private balcony and modern kitchen with large pantry and lots of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. The bedrooms and laundry closet are located on the third floor. The private master suite has a spacious master bathroom with walk-in closet, marble dual vanity and rainshower. The 2nd bedroom also has a private full bathroom. Cut down your utility bills in this LEED Certified home with tank-less water heater, dual glazed windows with low e glass, auto shut-off motion sensors in all baths, water efficient toilets, ceiling fans, and LEED certified construction. The downstairs area has a 2 car tandem garage attached to a large and inviting entry area w/coat closet. Other features include a security system and central air conditioning and heating. Mosaic Walk has fantastic amenities including a private pool and spa with sun deck and cabanas as well as courtyards with relaxing water features.

Our client wanted a SIP built home and we incorporated this and many other energy and sustainability features into this home which was in the Sheboygan County Parade of Homes. Named "The Green Balanced Home", this project was all about creating practical and stunning living spaces that combined with sound environmental building materials and methods. By showcasing an assortment of leading-edge- green technologies, the Green Balanced Home was the talk of the Parade that year. In cooperation with our client, our methodology was: Start with the site: 1. Protected tree lines 2. Drought resistant vegetation 3. High proportion of natural, plantings versus higher maintenance lawn 4. Optimal home placement on lot for solar exposure 5. Narrower streets Build a high thermal envelope: 1. R-10 Gold Guard laminated EPS foam under basement, garage, and patio. 2. R-10 Gold Guard laminated EPS foam around exterior foundation walls. 3. R-10 ESP foam "shirt" around foundation 4. R-24 Structural Insulated panels (SIPs) for exterior walls, including garage 5. Sprayed foam in basement box sills and attic separation walls 6. R-15 garage door 7. R-60 blown cellulose attic insulation Add efficient heating, cooling, ventilation, and electric utilization elements: 1. High efficiency fireplace with auxiliary ducting 2. Pull-out exterior wood-loading drawer 3. Air-to-air heat pump 4. 95% efficient, ultra-quiet variable capacity furnace 5. 19 SEER air conditioner 6. Five zones with programmable thermostats 7. Heat reclamation from hot water usage 8. LED lighting 9. Skylights 10. Energy Star appliances 11. Prep for in-floor heating system 12. Prep for photovoltaic (PV) solar 13. Prep for solar hot water Incorporate water conservation: 1. Rain water recapture for toilet flushing and irrigation 2. Motion activated hot water circulation system 3. Power flush toilets 4. Dual flush toilets Create high indoor air quality: 1. HEPA and UV filters 2. Air-to-air exchanger 3. Ultra-quiet bathroom fans with moisture sensor activation Integrate sustainable, efficient materials: * Expanded polystyrene (ESP) foam that does not emit HCFC "greenhouse" gases * Oriented strand board (OSB) based siding, trim, and shutters * SIPs panels that contain ESP an OSB * Carpeting pads made from recycled materials * Stewardship-certified cabinet manufacturing * Job site recycling and reduce waste with SIPs

Welcome to Mosaic Walk, modern and energy efficient living in the heart of Orange County, very close to the 5, 22, and 57 freeways. This beautiful end-unit townhome was built in 2011 and features 3 levels and 1,347 sf of living space. The main level is located on the 2nd floor with powder room, large living room and adjacent dining area, private balcony and modern kitchen with large pantry and lots of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. The bedrooms and laundry closet are located on the third floor. The private master suite has a spacious master bathroom with walk-in closet, marble dual vanity and rainshower. The 2nd bedroom also has a private full bathroom. Cut down your utility bills in this LEED Certified home with tank-less water heater, dual glazed windows with low e glass, auto shut-off motion sensors in all baths, water efficient toilets, ceiling fans, and LEED certified construction. The downstairs area has a 2 car tandem garage attached to a large and inviting entry area w/coat closet. Other features include a security system and central air conditioning and heating. Mosaic Walk has fantastic amenities including a private pool and spa with sun deck and cabanas as well as courtyards with relaxing water features.

The ultimate design goal was to create a functional open, contemporary kitchen. The design features included the addition of under-cabinet lights, multiple switches for the lights, and all on dimmers, t least one switch for recessed lights, one for under cabinet lights, one for pendant light above the island, etc. It features a farm-style kitchen sink, a sensor faucet that you touch to turn on and off, and a button next to the sink with a smart garbage disposal function. Eternal Statuario Polished Quartz was utilized for the kitchen countertop, while Subway tile was chosen for the kitchen backsplash. As for the floating shelf, a stylish butcher block was added.

The ultimate design goal was to create a functional open, contemporary kitchen. The design features included the addition of under-cabinet lights, multiple switches for the lights, and all on dimmers, t least one switch for recessed lights, one for under cabinet lights, one for pendant light above the island, etc. It features a farm-style kitchen sink, a sensor faucet that you touch to turn on and off, and a button next to the sink with a smart garbage disposal function. Eternal Statuario Polished Quartz was utilized for the kitchen countertop, while Subway tile was chosen for the kitchen backsplash. As for the floating shelf, a stylish butcher block was added.

The laundry machines are paired with an under mount utility sink with air dry rods above. Extra deep cabinet storage above the washer/dryer provide easy access to laundry detergents, etc. Under cabinet lighting keeps this land locked laundry room feeling light and bright. The washing machine has a moisture sensor installed underneath it. A Kitchen That Works LLC

Our client wanted a SIP built home and we incorporated this and many other energy and sustainability features into this home which was in the Sheboygan County Parade of Homes. Named "The Green Balanced Home", this project was all about creating practical and stunning living spaces that combined with sound environmental building materials and methods. By showcasing an assortment of leading-edge- green technologies, the Green Balanced Home was the talk of the Parade that year. In cooperation with our client, our methodology was: Start with the site: 1. Protected tree lines 2. Drought resistant vegetation 3. High proportion of natural, plantings versus higher maintenance lawn 4. Optimal home placement on lot for solar exposure 5. Narrower streets Build a high thermal envelope: 1. R-10 Gold Guard laminated EPS foam under basement, garage, and patio. 2. R-10 Gold Guard laminated EPS foam around exterior foundation walls. 3. R-10 ESP foam "shirt" around foundation 4. R-24 Structural Insulated panels (SIPs) for exterior walls, including garage 5. Sprayed foam in basement box sills and attic separation walls 6. R-15 garage door 7. R-60 blown cellulose attic insulation Add efficient heating, cooling, ventilation, and electric utilization elements: 1. High efficiency fireplace with auxiliary ducting 2. Pull-out exterior wood-loading drawer 3. Air-to-air heat pump 4. 95% efficient, ultra-quiet variable capacity furnace 5. 19 SEER air conditioner 6. Five zones with programmable thermostats 7. Heat reclamation from hot water usage 8. LED lighting 9. Skylights 10. Energy Star appliances 11. Prep for in-floor heating system 12. Prep for photovoltaic (PV) solar 13. Prep for solar hot water Incorporate water conservation: 1. Rain water recapture for toilet flushing and irrigation 2. Motion activated hot water circulation system 3. Power flush toilets 4. Dual flush toilets Create high indoor air quality: 1. HEPA and UV filters 2. Air-to-air exchanger 3. Ultra-quiet bathroom fans with moisture sensor activation Integrate sustainable, efficient materials: * Expanded polystyrene (ESP) foam that does not emit HCFC "greenhouse" gases * Oriented strand board (OSB) based siding, trim, and shutters * SIPs panels that contain ESP an OSB * Carpeting pads made from recycled materials * Stewardship-certified cabinet manufacturing * Job site recycling and reduce waste with SIPs

Farmhouse Reinvented - Interior Design Project in Marlboro, New York Design: Duncan Avenue // Maxwell & Dino Alexander Construction: ToughConstruct | Hudson Valley Welcome to the historic (circa 1870) Hudson Valley Farmhouse in the heart of legendary Marlboro, NY. It has been completely reimagined by the Award-Winning Duncan Avenue Design Studio and has become an inspiring, stylish and extremely comfortable zero-emissions 21st century smart home just minutes away from NYC. Situated on top of a hill and an acre of picturesque landscape, it could become your turnkey second-home, a vacation home, rental or investment property, or an authentic Hudson Valley Style dream home for generations to come. The Farmhouse has been renovated with style, design, sustainability, functionality, and comfort in mind and incorporates more than a dozen smart technology, energy efficiency, and sustainability features. Contemporary open concept floorplan, glass french doors and 210° wraparound porch with 3-season outdoor dining space blur the line between indoor and outdoor living and allow residents and guests to enjoy a true connection with surrounding nature. Wake up to the sunrise shining through double glass doors on the east side of the house and watch the warm sunset rays shining through plenty of energy-efficient windows and french doors on the west. High-end finishes such as sustainable bamboo hardwood floors, sustainable concrete countertops, solid wood kitchen cabinets with soft closing drawers, energy star stainless steel appliances, and designer light fixtures are only a few of the updates along with a brand-new central HVAC heat pump system controlled by smart Nest thermostat with two-zone sensors. Brand new roof, utilities, and all LED lighting bring additional value and comfort for many years to come. The property features a beautiful designer pergola on the edge of the hill with an opportunity for the in-ground infinity pool. Property's sun number is 91 and is all set for installation of your own solar farm that will take the property go 100% off-grid. Superior quality renovation, energy-efficient smart utilities, world-class interior design, sustainable materials, and Authentic Hudson Valley Style make this unique property a true real estate gem and once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity to own a turnkey second-home and a piece of the Hudson Valley history.

Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

An unattractive dysfunctional kitchen has been transformed into a hub for frequent family gatherings. The build-in cabinetry behind the breakfast table stores multiple sets of china and collectibles. The large new island allowed for more storage, more prep area and a means for concealing the existing water, waste and electrical utilities.

LEED Certification Level: V4 Builder: BPC Green Builders, LLC Architect: Trillium Architects. The Taft School faculty home serves as a high performance residence and learning lab for students. The project also earned certification through ENERGY STAR, Indoor airPLUS, Water Sense, PHIUS, and Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Homes with Living Building Challenge Petal recognition pending. The project team was honored with third place in the 2014 Connecticut Zero Energy Home Challenge. Excluding the photovoltaic installation the HERS index was 33, and with the 13.1 kW the HERS index is -14. A year of utility bills show the home is producing more electricity than it uses. Located on a quiet street adjacent to campus the existing, historic home was deconstructed and materials donated or reused where possible. Challenged to find high efficiency windows that were historic commission acceptable, the team installed Klearwall awnings or casements over fixed glass (to mimic double hungs) with simulated divided lites (u-values as low as 0.13). A high solar heat gain coefficient (0.58) facilitates the passive solar gain for winter months, while well designed overhangs and a pergola shade summer sun. Double stud walls have 2¼” closed cell foam plus 8½” dense pack cellulose for a R-49 cavity. The exterior sheathing is R-6.6 Zip Wall System with taped seams to create the continuous air barrier. Inside the solid concrete foundation is 3” closed cell foam behind 2x4 stud walls and R-32 cellulose in the cavity. Prefabricated TJI joists frame the attic floor, an insulated “room” houses the heat recovery ventilator and ductwork, and blown in cellulose blankets it all in R-86. The house tested 0.6ACH50 proving the effectiveness of its air-tight envelope and attention to air sealing. Heating and cooling is provided by efficient air source heat pumps (9.2 HSPF, 16.5 SEER) and delivered by short duct runs which tested extremely tight. A heat pump water heater provides domestic hot water and an on-demand switch, with an occupancy sensor at each bath, ensures hot water is delivered fast and efficiently. Low flow fixtures are WaterSense certified, appliances are Energy Star labeled, and all LED lighting. A Zehnder Novus 300 (93.3% efficient) HRV supplies 112 cfm of continuous fresh air while using only 32 watts of power and running quietly. The homeowners control the mechanical ventilation through the intuitive wall-mounted control pad to shut off or increase the ventilation. Chemicals and contaminants were reduced by using low VOC and GreenGuard certified sealants, adhesives, primers, and paints. A walk-off matt at the side entry and hardwood floors help control dirt and dust. The granite front steps were salvaged and local stone used for the patio and stone walls. Storm water runoff from the roof, patio, and driveway is managed by the rain garden. The native landscaping is low maintenance, a community garden produces vegetables, and the chicken coop is powered by its own roof mounted PV panels. Taft School Director of Environmental Stewardship, Carly Borken has used the design and construction process as a teaching tool for her science classes. With access to the home monitoring system they can virtually access the residents’ consumption.