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power and light through solar panels
Project Details
Project Story
This project is an architect driven 5-unit townhouse development that integrates green technologies and materials within a modern design sensibility.
The project occupies a typical infill site within Santa Monica, California’s semi-urban grid. Its design is a significant departure from the traditionally based neighborhood context.
With its serial pattern and clean dipartite formal composition capped with semi-transparent bi-facial photovoltaic solar canopies that provide shade for roof decks as well as over 3000kwh electricity generation per year for each unit, these townhomes are designed to incite excitement and a sense of optimism for a sustainable future.
Other hallmarks of the project include a simple palette of sustainable materials inside and out, an abundance of natural light and ventilation, and connections to outdoor spaces on each level.
The project’s system technologies minimize adverse environmental impact. The lighting system makes extensive use of fluorescents and LEDs. Water conserving features include low flow plumbing equipment and fixtures, 100% drought tolerant landscaping and drip irrigation. All rainwater is retained on site for irrigation use and urban runoff mitigation. HVAC equipment exceeds 90% efficiency and uses non-toxic refrigerant.
While solar canopies are the most outwardly expressive green element of the project, at the core of each townhome’s interior is an ethanol burning fireplace that is encased in the same FSC-certified bamboo laminate that is used throughout the project for cabinetry and flooring. These minimalist, double-sided, clean burning and energy efficient fireplaces provide separation between living and dining areas. These central hearths for the 21st century generate a cool ambience while effectively warming each unit’s entire two-story primary volume.
