Boston-based ZeroEnergy Design creates high-performance green home designs that transcend the usual limitations of sustainable building by creating structures that are striking in style and green in substance.

The Truro Residence (pictured), was designed for a Boston couple and their extended family seeking a weekend and summer getaway in one of our favorite locales, Cape Cod.

The 7 bedroom, 8 bath home is split into a ‘Living Bar’ and a ‘Sleeping Bar.’ The Sleeping Bar is the expansion module with numerous bedrooms & bathrooms to accommodate the entire family. The Living Bar includes the living and dining areas, as well as a secondary master bedroom – all that the couple needs when the children are away. The two-zone design allows the Sleeping Bar to be shut down during the majority of the year to decrease energy use.

The narrow lot size, combined with the client’s square footage requirements and desire to take in the view from the primary living space made for a less than ideal orientation of the glazing. To offset energy loss the builders are using double stud framing throughout the construction, which allows a continuous layer of foam insulation (uninterrupted by studs). A geothermal system, coupled with a radiant heating system, will supply all of the heating and cooling for the year. Aside from energy efficient appliances and water heaters, ZED worked with a lighting consultant to ensure that all of the spaces are well illuminated using energy efficient fixtures. Propane is used only for cooking. There is no natural gas.

The roof sports a large solar electric array and battery back-up system which will store electricity from the solar array to ensure the basic functions of the home in the event of a power outage. The combination of the energy efficient building envelope, and systems with the solar array allow the home to produce as much energy as it uses over the course of a year.

Flooring is limited to slate, bamboo, and polished concrete, omitting any carpeting that might capture dust, mites, mold, or moisture. The bamboo flooring is bound with nontoxic glues. The formaldehyde-free insulation in interior walls and floors will provide sound insulation and improve the performance of the radiant heating system. An air exchange and energy recovery system will provide clean fresh air year-round.

Finally, the exterior finishes will allow the home to turn a traditional Cape Cod grey, and blend into the Truro dunes. The site is vegetated with indigenous plants that prevent erosion and don’t require irrigation.  You arrive at the home via a permeable driveway.

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photos: eric roth