Sustainability Raised above the valley floor, the house captures wind from the adjacent vineyards. Openings in the exterior envelope have been increased with the addition of large operable windows and sliding glass doors leading out to a wrap-around porch, allowing the clients to take advantage of the Mediterranean-like climate and natural ventilation. Deep overhangs of the hipped roof help shade these areas during the hottest times of the year and buffer interiors from direct solar gain. Enlarged window openings and new skylights provide significant day lighting throughout the house, decreasing the need for supplemental lighting. Preexisting incandescent lights were replaced with LED fixtures, reducing electrical demands, while the addition of solar panels on the roof of the detached garage are expected to further offset the resultant power usage. The resource efficient upgrades within the house are carried into the surrounding landscape as well, where native plant selections and strategic zoning areas have been decided based on sun exposure and water usage, helping to limit the site’s overall water demands.
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