We designed a modest, site-attuned dwelling to Passive House standards as an extension of the family’s homesteading commitment.
Siting – The home occupies a small clearing pressed against a deep forest, sited to provide space for animals, vegetables, orchards and agriculture. We positioned the dwelling to accomplish several goals:
– Perched by the forest edge, to encourage casual childhood adventures.
– Sheltered by the wooded slope to be shielded from winds.
– Angled to collect and store winter solar rays.
– Oriented for a welcoming, protected entry.
– Earth-bermed to enhance insulation, direct run-off, and silence road noise.
Program – We started with a simple plan-diagram for the home – Two squares are bisected by the line of entry, then refined by need:
To the north is the sleeping tower. Its basic form and minimal openings respond to its prosaic functions.
To the south is a single living space, lifting up to a south-facing window positioned to regulate solar gain and to selectively frame a neighborless vista.
Optimization – To keep size to a minimum, many elements do double duty:
– The entry hall is also the main circulation spine and the mudroom.
– The wheeled dining table can be tucked under the kitchen island for daily meals or pulled out to accommodate eight or more.
– The first floor bathroom is divided by a door into a front guest toilet with an integral sink/tank; and a master bath beyond containing the shower and master sink.
– The master closet is also the laundry room
– The children can slide a single door in their bedrooms to reveal either a clothes closet or desk.
Envelope Investment – We employ extreme insulation, thermal mass, best practices for construction, and synchronized air-exchange. A wall-mounted air-source heat pump is the only heat source other than a small wood stove. A cord of firewood was the only fuel burned in littleHOUSE’s first winter.
Through all these measures, we aim to meet a family’s vision of independence, lifelong stewardship, and closeness to nature.
