Bob's net-zero Home

Bob’s net-zero Home is a straw bale construction that sits on his land just west of Dover, DE. The land is equally wooded and open fields, very flat, with subtle definition and nothing compelling regarding the home placement. It was also ideal for active and passive solar considerations, and we found a corner of the open field to nestle the house near the woods.

As Bob wanted a two-car garage, we could put the solar panels on that roof, freeing the house to take any shape, while opening to the south for passive solar. We stretched the house along the east-west axis, and situated each room to receive light as Bob desired, such as his bedroom at the west, so not to be too bright in the morning.

Bob has limited mobility, so all essential spaces are on the ground floor, providing universal access. A stained concrete floor both grounds the vitality of the interiors and is easy to move around on.  There is ample space throughout, with no steps. The partial second floor is for guests, and we installed an elevator.

Other green features – non-toxic finishes, local finish wood, FSC-certified lumber, an ERV for energy-efficient fresh air, radiant floor heat, long-lasting metal roof with 100% recycled content, and highly energy-efficient windows and doors.