The project is a $40,000 house. Although the tradition architectural vernacular is valued in the neighborhood, it is important to move forward to assess concepts of sustainable and low energy homes when constructing something new. Four concepts were analyzed and integrated:
Excavation of the site to utilize the earth’s natural insulation,
Natural light to use less energy for lighting during daylight hours,
Incorporating a passive envelope that releases heat at night, reflects sun during the warmest times of year, utilizes sun during the coolest times of year, and blocks sun during the hottest times of day.
Reveal and Conceal of existing foundation elements which respects the idea of the past and is also a sustainable practice of recycling building materials.
Radial Private to Public Spaces. Radial spaces are incorporated at the scale of the home and the scale of the site itself.
Radial symmetry is a recurring theme in the filtration of natural light throughout the spaces, the excavated levels, and the building envelope. The roof responds to the ground and the spaces depending on their privacy levels.
After careful analysis of affordable housing and residential design in general, a light wood advanced frame system was chosen for its structural, cost, and insulation benefits. The exterior finish materials are vertical wood siding, standard frame windows, and black asphalt shingles. These materials are consistent with the material dialect throughout Nicholtown.
The home itself goes against the standard gable roof of Nicholtown but it incorporates sustainable building practices that will benefit the client in the future and provide a unique aesthetic to the neighborhood.
2014
Clemson University