This house is designed to maximize sun in a cool, ocean climate. The larger portion of the house is pushed to the northeast side of the small and irregularly-shaped lot; the smaller and more private portion – office below, master bedroom above – is attached by a bridge at the upper level. The living area’s large windows and doors open onto a sunny, south-facing courtyard. The solid walls and smaller windows on the street side of the house provide a greater degree of privacy. When desired, a large gate under the bridge can open the courtyard to the street.

SIPs (Structural Insulated Panel System) construction provides a very efficient building envelope. Photovolatic panels and solar thermal water heating will provide most of the building’s energy. Water collected from roofs will irrigate the garden.