architecture 4 us

The New American Home, A Sustainable House by Architecture by Phil Kean, LLC

Posted: 24 Feb 2012 12:29 AM PST

The New American Home is a sustainable project, built for annual NAHB's International Builders' Show in Orlando, Florida. It was designed by Architecture by Phil Kean, and built by Phil Kean Designs, Inc. Some green building certifications were collected, thanks to its sustainable features.

This sustainable architecture building is claimed to have more efficient performance regarding the energy use. It is expected to consume only 52% less energy than a standard home of similar size. To achieve this, it is powered by alternative energy and good insulation. 4.0 kW solar array may provide 18% of annual energy needs. Spray foam is used as insulation to minimize air leakage. It is applied on the underside of the roof deck and around penetrations and framing.

Another sustainable features are also used, such as insulated ICF exterior walls, low-e coated and argon-filled windows, some Energy Star appliances, LED and CFL lighting, solar panels for heating, etc. All are to achieve high sustainability and energy efficiency. There are also motorized exterior solar screens and interior privacy shades to control the sun exposure.

The energy usage of this eco friendly construction is also controlled so it can be shifted to off-peak periods. Almost all of the home’s features can be controlled by smartphone, tablet.

This sustainable home achieved 8 certifications, such as : NAHB Emerald, LEED-H Platinum, Energy Star, door airPlus, Florida Green Building Coalition Platinum, Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Designation, Florida Water Star Gold, and the DOE's Builders Challenge.