Riverview

RIVERVIEW

project

The owners approached the architects with a simple request for a modest new home for their retirement years, with a low environmental impact.  The site is located on the Piscataqua River in New Castle, New Hampshire at the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean. The home also resides in the New Castle Historical District, which has strict standards for preserving and enhancing the historic character of the surrounding area.

design

The design team worked within a controlled, Shaker inspired vocabulary to establish a modest structure as desired by the owners and meet the intent of the historic district. The restraint continues inside with a simple pallet of materials reflecting the sensibilities of the owners.  Wood floors, plaster walls and ceilings are complemented by solid wood interior cabinetry that presents a modern shaker influence. With the exception of the loft area as a bonus space, the home was designed to be fully accessible so as the owner’s age, they would remain comfortable in the home.

On the exterior, new walkways and parking spaces use pervious paving and provide the accessibility required. Invasive plantings were replaced with native vegetative species and all established trees on the site remained.

sustainability

The project has achieved a Net-Zero energy use through the use of natural, sustainable materials/systems to achieve exceptional energy performance.   Emphasis was placed on eliminating materials produced with petroleum products.  With that in mind, building envelope systems used for the project provide a highly insulated “foam free” construction.  Mineral wool board was used for all exterior continuous insulation on the roof and walls, including all below grade walls. Included on the insulated exterior wall cavity is a separate service cavity on the interior face isolating any utilities.  Walls & roof/ceiling systems incorporate a vapor open approach with a continuously sealed interior air & smart vapor barrier.  The high performing triple glazed European windows & doors selected help keep the home air tight, even when the predominant high winds blow up the river. Heat recovery ventilation is provided throughout. The addition of a 10.8 Kw PV array on the roof of the garage provides power just in excess of the owners needs, including powering an electric car over the first two years of use.  Carefully located on the garage roof, the black on black PV panels were the first to be approved in the historic district in New Castle.