Homestead
Construction of our permanent residence began in 2019 and continues. It features passive solar principles utilizing a central wood stove for supplemental heating, attached sunroom, and attached cold cellar.
- Location – mid-slope placement avoids frosty valleys and windy ridges. Windbreak species planted in 2015 and 2018 years prior to construction will provide eventual wind and snow protection around the house and driveway.
- Site orientation and simplicity – two compromises were made here. Although it is a larger house, it utilizes an efficient rectangular shape to simplify the build. Although ICF (insulated concrete form) builds are very high in embodied energy, it is a very durable and insulative material.
- Passive solar design – the house invites solar access and the windows are oriented to soak up sunlight during the heating season. The attached sunroom and garage provide additional thermal buffering, as does the earth sheltering along the north and west. The earth sheltering also conditions the heat exchange ventilation air.
- Hot water heating – domestic hot water is heated by a solar thermal system during the growing season, and by the wood stove in freezing weather.
- Attached south sunroom – in addition to growing food, it will provide winter sun and potential heat and humidity benefits to the house
- Attached north cold cellar – located at the north and the temperature moderated by the ground
- Community enjoyment – gathering spaces are located outdoors and indoors
Construction continues and a wide range of building tasks are available for those interested in learning and work exchange.
Construction of a mobile tiny house is nearly complete.