Wednesday, September 13, 2017

The results are in... the Sumer Residence is LEED Platinum!

After months of hard work, the Sumer Residence is officially LEED Platinum Certified! The final points came in at 98.5, which is 86 above the Platinum threshold. It is especially impressive and challenging for a remodel to achieve LEED Platinum because there are built-in constraints such as existing walls, windows facing certain ways, etc., which all affect the capacity for energy efficiency. High Title 24 scores (CA energy modeling) can earn many points in LEED and it's very difficult for a remodeled home to earn a high score with existing limitations. For this home to have come in 12.5 above the threshold is an achievement to be proud of!

I will post a breakdown of points soon. For now, please enjoy these photos of the beautiful and complete project. If you'd like to see the home in person, you can on this year's Green Homes Tour on October 22!




Existing trellis remained in place

80% drought tolerant landscaping irrigated by rainwater and greywater systems




Permeable driveway to filter stormwater and recharge groundwater before entering storm drain








FSC Certified teak flooring



Drought tolerant turf - aloha seashore paspalum

2825 gal rainwater tank collects from 100% of the roof



EV charging station

Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Reducing tracked in contaminants

A majority of the dirt and dust in homes is tracked in by occupants. Debris carried into the house from shoes often contains lead, asbestos, pesticides, and other hazardous materials. Shoes also track moisture into the home, leading to mold growth in carpeting near entryways. One of the most effective ways to reduce indoor contaminants is removing shoes upon arrival.

The Sumer Residence earned 1 LEED point in the Indoor Environmental Quality category for installing a shoe removal and storage space next to the front door that has enough space for ≥ 2 pairs of shoes per bedroom.