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Courtyard
Each house is centered around a courtyard with a retractable, screened glass roof—part of a multiseason sun space that creates a daily connection with the natural environment even as it optimizes ventilation and solar gain. With high-performance walls, roof and windows; high-efficiency boiler, plumbing and energy-recovery ventilation; and optional solar panels, the house is a near net-zero-energy home. (For bigger images, click on the picture.)
 
A locally harvested, timber-frame structure and sliding glass walls frame an open, peaceful interior space. Optional, shoji-style translucent wall panels add daylighting and an Asian touch. The masonry hearth option provides clean burning, wood-fired warmth and a heated seat.
 
Kitchen with innovative sink, single-row cooktopThe kitchen in this house represents a rethinking of long-held assumptions, and is designed to be both more useful and more fun while staying relatively small. Innovative features include an extra-wide sink and single-row cooktop that enables ‘side-by-side’ collaborative cooking and clean-up, and wet-proof storage shelves and drawers that merge functions of pot drying and storage. A spacious, adjustable-height work island creates a hub for family activities. (For a fuller discussion, click here.)
 
Adjacent to the kitchen is a "wet room" designed to handle water-intense household activities ranging from growing fresh herbs and vegetables to hanging laundry and hosing off muddy pets. In the image, an optional Japanese soaking tub overlooks the courtyard through a porthole window.
Ofuro  
Lower level is accessible, preconfigured for lift
Designed for long-term living, the main floors connect directly to the outdoors and are planned for a lift and other accessible features. The lower level can be configured to house extended family or caretakers. It also can be modified to become a fully rentable Supplement Apartment.