CompassHaus

Designed to respond to an interestingly shaped, peninsular lot, the home was stretched across the site from the narrow cul-de-sac frontage to the tip of the waterfront intersection of the Intracoastal Waterway and a navigable canal. By stretching the home, the residents are assured an unobstructed water view in all directions even after the vacant lot next door is developed.

Height was used to conform to the FEMA standard as well as local requirements. This additional height at the living level created an opportunity for wide views across the bay from the second floor spaces. The FEMA standard, along with the unique lot shape added additional circulation the program. These constraints drove the architecture, creating something truly unique and beautiful.

The clients’ program included the need for a Zero Energy, LEED Platinum certified home. Durability, Energy and Water Efficiency, Indoor Air Quality, Healthy Site Considerations, Material Selections and Waste Management were the primary considerations once the concept was developed. The white exterior and EnergyStar roof assembly helped to reduce heat load. Cutting edge insulation, incredible attention to detail during construction, and a premium glass and frame system ensure the tightest envelope imaginable. A high SEER, variable speed HVAC system, designed, installed and tested to the strictest EnergyStar IAP standard creates a comfortable indoor environment while managing energy consumption. EnergyStar appliances, ventilation, and water heaters as well as LED lighting and a lighting control system all help to ensure that no power is wasted. Solar PV makes up the difference. The finishes were kept to a minimum for both conservation and aesthetics. Focus was placed on areas that the structure could be exposed to reveal its own beauty.

The home received a HERS index of 2 and is certified Energy Star, Energy Star IAP, registered LEED Platinum. This home is evidence that luxury and efficiency can coexist.