This project is a second home for a client that splits his week between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. The home was developed for efficiency in response to a tight budget, and to maximize the amazing views of the adjacent landscape. An interpretation of alpine rustic modernism, vertical cedar siding and cedar wood is featured throughout the design. The house is grid connected, but it is also grid independent.

Typical for houses in that area, there is no connection to propane. The house creates electricity and heat from the 600 square feet of southern oriented PV and thermal hot water panels on the roof. During the days which the house is empty, electricity is created and stored for use during the peak days when the client is home. In addition to providing electricity, the PV panels power an electronic hot water heater which in turn heats the house through radiant floor heating. Hot water is heated from the thermal panels, also supplying hot water for the house, and is controlled from an electronic transfer module located in the attic. Additionally, the house has forced air heating which is captured from the 130 degree trapped air between the panels and the roof. This process can also be reversed and used to cool the high ceiling spaces on the second floor.

Windows and sliding glass doors located on both sides are oriented for views to the south and back yard to the north, and are operable to allow for natural convection and cross ventilation. The first floor is partially built into the landscape with concrete retaining walls and a concrete slab on grade to act as a thermal mass to maintain a temperate environment, while the second floor has concrete floors collecting heat from solar gain. A custom fireplace, television and bookshelf wall framed by blackened plate steel is the centerpiece of the living room. Although the house is for one, is it designed to entertain guests, and includes a guest bedroom and pool table & recreation area.