To ensure adequate ventilation to this well sealed home, a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system was installed. This system removes stale, moist air from the building and provides fresh air for the home while at the same time recovering heat that would have been lost in the process.

Given that this is a predominately lightweight home, it was important to ensure adequate thermal mass was factored into the design. The downstairs level of the home was placed on a concrete slab and the internal laundry walls were constructed from brick. The window placement & shading devices installed ensure that only winter sun hits these surfaces and absorbs the heat which then dissipates throughout the home in the evening.

Bio PCM (phase change material) was also installed in the ceilings of the home. Bio PCM, like thermal mass, absorbs and releases large quantities of energy however unlike thermal mass can do so very quickly. BioPCM assists in creating a much more stable & consistent indoor air temperature over a 24 hour period.

The end result is a home which is achieves optimal comfort for the owners all year round and limits the use of heating/cooling to only the handful of extreme hot/cold days experienced in our climate.

Architect: Envirotecture