A Zero-Energy Community: Part 3
Project Manager Brad Liljequist chronicles the building of the zHome, a ten-unit townhome in Issaquah, Washington—the first multifamily zero-energy community in the United States. Part 3: A Q&A With David Vandervort Architects. For our blog today I am going to interview David Vandervort and Mark Weirenga with David Vandervort Architects, the Seattle-based architectural firm that designed zHome. They have a long history of sustainably designed single-family homes and remodel projects along with extensive low-rise multifamily experience. Their projects include the sustainable demonstration project NEXTHouse and an award winning LEED Gold custom residence. I have really enjoyed working with David and Mark over the last several years and deeply appreciate the “homey modern” aesthetic they brought to zHome—modern design that you’d actually want to live in.
Even before being selected for the project we developed an initial concept that introduced the ideas of shared outdoor space, common gardens, green walls, and renewable energy integration that became the design framework for the eventual project. These ideas resonated with the project stakeholders and developer and we were ultimately selected to see the design through to reality.
We considered carefully how we would create a community within the Highlands that fit with the character of the place, but, since zHome was a unique and potentially influential project, we wanted to give it a forward thinking identity that promoted both the technological aspects and the community oriented aspects of sustainable living.As architects, what are you trying to achieve with the design of zHome?
Along with a community focus we also felt it important to maintain a sense of privacy for the individual dwelling units. To facilitate this we located the main living areas on the second floor and utilized decks and porches as modulating spaces between the units and the common space. These can be provided with screening devices for further sun and privacy control. In order to still maintain a direct connection to the courtyard each unit also has a flexible ground floor space that opens up to the courtyard and can be used as a home office or additional gathering space.
In a departure from the typical townhouse model, motor vehicles were relegated to the periphery of the project. Access strung along the north edge of the site allows access to congregated garages and promotes interaction with the courtyard even if arriving by car. The street has also been equipped for the parking and charging of electric vehicles. But the interior of the site is free of vehicular access and available for the enjoyment of the occupants.In what ways is zHome a new model for living?
Inside the dwellings, we took the approach that the quality of the space is just as important as meeting the technical energy benchmarks. The dwellings have access to light and volume by incorporating open lofts into double height spaces. Outdoor decks and patios at all levels extend the available living space and help to create a buffer between private space (inside) and community public space (courtyard). Finally, reflecting the variety of modern living these dwellings are provided with open and flexible spaces. In many units, ground level spaces are provided that can be configured as a single large open room, or divided for use as multiple spaces. These spaces can be bedrooms, living spaces or home offices. How did the technical aspects of the design integrate with the architectural design process?
We also believe that a well-designed community space is a huge benefit to small multifamily developments. These spaces provide opportunities to connect with each other and the natural world. It is our hope that zHome will be a place where community resources and individual needs are carefully balanced.
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