house plans

An Interesting Geometric Solar Home

I'm always interested in seeing what ideas builders and designers come up with, and how they implement some of the more fun elements of building science - and this example certainly caught my eye.

Built in Wisconsin by designer Shane Black, the home uses solar thermal panels to heat a bed of sand beneath the house, keeping the interior temperature comfortable throughout the year. Combined with smart window placement and energy-efficient building techniques, the project achieves a 50% savings in energy consumption. Black’s goal was to create a home that utilized as many of his ideas as possible while at the same time being earth-friendly, proving that it’s possible to create a unique, beautiful home that also has a low impact on the environment.

I just want to know where I hang the Christmas lights!