THE DRAWING BOARD-JAN/FEB 2009

A Biddeford project designed to bring nature in while being energy efficient

Architect: Caleb Johnson Architects
Square Footage:  Main House – 1,800
Garage/Apartment – 1,300

Builder: Lavertu Construction
Cabinets: Derek Preble Cabinetmakers
Site: Howard Trucking
Electric: MJ Electric
Heating: Casa Pro
Windows: Eagle-Royal Windows

Located in the woods near Biddeford Pool, this home’s natural, weathered exterior will be contrasted on the interior with clean, modern lines.

The first-floor living areas feature a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that brings the outside in and allows the sun to warm the concrete floors passive solar heating; the mix of a carefully placed overhang and summer foliage will keep out the hot summer sun. Beyond the glass wall, the south lawn acts as an extension of the living areas. Designed for a family of five, the floor plan is a model of efficiency and utilizes every square-foot available, making the most of the garage, for example, by using it as a three-season porch during the warmer months.

The house is designed for economy, with construction costs (excluding the cost of the site) coming in at well under $100 per square foot. Additionally, research is underway to see if the project can incorporate enough solar panels and solar hot water tubes to make the home completely energy independent. The main house itself will be constructed with infill straw bales, which have a high insulating value, and timber from the site will be used structurally and for cladding.