OFF-GRID VILLA. OFF-GRID VILLA.

Waterloo University - Spring 2021

In Collaboration with: Naya Sanchez Softwares Used: Rhino, Enscape, Illustrator & Photoshop

Within the Chilliwack municipality, the Sunnyside villa becomes the peak of sustainable design on Cultus lake. During the climate crisis, water homes are becoming a reliable and Eco-friendly solution to rising sea levels. Through strategies of several active systems, daylighting, shading, natural ventilation, and renewable energy, this construction is completely off-grid and provides a lowenergy sanctuary for the occupants. The building uses wood planks reused from old cottages located in the surrounding area, along with recycled steel members for the supports in the water.

With that, solar windows, railings and siding are installed to provide renewable energy and aesthetics to the façade. Therefore, the overall embodied carbon and energy consumption of the building is significantly reduced. In addition, a biophilic design approach has been used to better enhance user connectivity to the natural surroundings and promote a peaceful destination. This includes the garden wall that is irrigated through the grey water system, as well as the gardens on the lower deck that are used for growing food for the occupants.