Rethinking Green
April 4th, 2008
The Argonaut Group and Paolo Design Group have formed an innovative partnership to design and brand a “More Than Green” home in the Ultimate Open House Home Tour. The goal was to combine high end contemporary design with sustainable site development and home building practices. The result is this stunning modern home on SW Boundary Street in Portland. The sleek and modern, yet warm aesthetic of this home’s interior is enhanced by the sustainable practices used during construction and the increased energy efficiency that the anticipated Earth Advantage and Energy Star certifications provide.
In selecting the site to build this home, the Argonaut Group looked for a close-in infill lot that did not require cutting down mature trees. This site was choked with invasive English Ivy and Blackberry brambles. There was also one diseased apple tree that was removed. All storm water that hits this lot is either retained or treated on-site. This is accomplished by using pervious pavers in lieu of a standard concrete driveway, and connecting all downspouts to a flow through planter box. The landscaping at this home is over 50% native, and predominantly drought tolerant. Turf has also been minimized to a small section in front of the house, while the rear and side yards are being hydro-seeded with a mixture of native shrubs and grasses.
Construction on this home did not require a dumpster because 100% of wood, metal, paper, cardboard, and drywall were recycled. A passive solar orientation where a majority of windows face south help heat this home in the winter, and provide plenty of natural light. The three zone climate control on the 92% efficient furnaces helps save energy, and the energy efficient windows and insulation help retain heat. Water is heated with twin tankless hot water heaters so that water is not being warmed when it is not needed.
Building Green is about more than certifications and sustainable materials. Location and environmental impact of the site play a huge role in true sustainable living. Think of it this way: you could live in a home with similar features and green ratings in the suburbs, but if your daily commute takes you to downtown Portland, your carbon footprint would be much higher. Buying a new energy efficient home in a close-in existing neighborhood cuts down on vehicle emissions, and saves fuel costs for you and your family. Infill also helps cut down on the urban encroachment into farmlands and forests.